The African Democratic Congress (ADC) says the Federal Government has quietly abandoned the Safe Schools Initiative, a programme created to protect students and teachers from attacks.

Bolaji Abdullahi, the party’s spokesperson, spoke after a closed-door meeting of ADC leaders in Abuja, chaired by national chairman David Mark.

Former Kaduna governor Nasir el-Rufai was also in attendance.

Abdullahi said many states are shutting schools and sending pupils home instead of fixing security lapses. arguing that closing schools empowers violent groups and worsens fear, insisting the government should strengthen security rather than retreat.

He criticised the neglect of the Safe Schools Initiative and Safe Schools Programme, saying they once showed a commitment to protect children but have now been abandoned.

The ADC called on the Federal Government to deploy the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps to all unity schools and take urgent, transparent steps to secure and reopen affected institutions.

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Abdullahi urged authorities to ensure children return to school safely and resist the spread of insecurity. He also congratulated families whose abducted relatives were recently released.

The Federal Government recently ordered the closure of dozens of unity colleges over rising security threats.

Source: Thecable