By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Calabar
Public and private schools across Cross River State may be shut down from next week as teachers intensify pressure on the state government over unpaid salaries and worsening insecurity in schools.
The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) in the state, Comrade Gregory Olayi, issued the warning at the end of a public rally organised by the union to express solidarity with teachers and pupils abducted by gunmen in Oyo State.
The rally, held in parts of the state, also drew attention to the security challenges facing schools nationwide, the welfare of teachers and unresolved issues surrounding salary payments and career progression.
Olayi said the national leadership of the NUT had directed all state chapters to prepare for an indefinite strike if the Federal Government failed to take decisive action to secure the release of abducted teachers and school children and improve security in educational institutions.
He disclosed that the Cross River chapter had given the state government a one-week ultimatum to clear salary arrears owed teachers since September 2025 and address grievances relating to grade levels and promotions.
According to him, the union would not hesitate to shut down the education sector if the demands were not met within the stipulated period.
“If our members are not paid their salaries as and when due, we will shut down the education sector in seven days. We are serious about this position,” he said.
The NUT chairman also expressed concern over the security situation in schools across the state, describing many school premises as porous and vulnerable to attacks.
He urged the state government to strengthen security measures around schools to guarantee the safety of both teachers and students, noting that government has a responsibility to protect lives and property.
Olayi further lamented that the abduction of school children and teachers in Oyo State had created widespread fear among pupils, especially younger children, and called on all levels of government to treat school security as a matter of urgent national importance.
He also reminded political leaders that they usually swear to protect lives and property, saying this oath is a challenge to them.
