The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, has expressed concern over the growing incidents of cultism, hooliganism and violent clashes among students in secondary schools across Oyo State, calling on relevant authorities to urgently address the situation and strengthen security in schools.
The union raised the alarm during its monthly congress held at the NUJ Press Centre in Ibadan, where members discussed security and other social challenges affecting the state.
In a communiqué issued at the end of the meeting, the congress lamented what it described as the increasing cases of student fights and the display of dangerous weapons in secondary schools.
The journalists’ body warned that if the trend is not tackled promptly, it could worsen insecurity in the state and undermine efforts to maintain peace and discipline within the school system.
The union therefore urged relevant authorities to take firm steps to restore order in schools, including sanctioning school administrators who fail to enforce rules and adequately supervise students.
The NUJ also reminded parents of their responsibility in the upbringing of their children, noting that the family remains the primary source of moral guidance and discipline.
According to the union, effective collaboration among parents, school authorities and government agencies is crucial to tackling the growing wave of youth violence and preventing the spread of criminal behaviour among young people.
The congress further called on the Oyo State Government to intensify efforts to strengthen the state’s security framework to ensure the safety of lives and property.
It added that addressing youth-related violence in schools would significantly contribute to reducing insecurity and promoting a safer environment across the state.
