The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, has raised concern over rising incidents of cultism, hooliganism and violent clashes among students in secondary schools across the state, urging authorities to take urgent steps to address the trend and strengthen security.
The union made the call during its monthly congress held at the NUJ Press Centre, Iyaganku, Ibadan, where members deliberated on security and social issues affecting the state.
In a communiqué issued at the end of the meeting, the congress lamented what it described as the increasing cases of incessant fights and the brandishing of dangerous weapons among students in secondary schools.
The journalists’ body warned that the development, if not urgently addressed, could worsen insecurity in the state and undermine efforts aimed at maintaining peace and order within the school system.
The congress therefore urged relevant authorities to take decisive measures to restore discipline in schools, including imposing sanctions on school authorities that fail to enforce rules and maintain proper supervision of students.
The NUJ also stressed that parents must not abdicate their responsibilities in the upbringing of their children, noting that the family remains the first point of moral guidance and discipline.
According to the union, stronger collaboration between parents, school authorities and government agencies is necessary to curb the growing wave of youth violence and prevent the spread of criminal tendencies among young people.
The congress further called on the Oyo State Government to intensify efforts at strengthening the state’s security architecture to ensure the protection of lives and property.
It noted that addressing youth-related violence in schools would go a long way in tackling insecurity and promoting a safer environment across the state.
