Amnesty International Raises Alarm Over School Closures in Sokoto

By Fahad Faruk Galadanchi

Amnesty International Nigeria has expressed concern over the closure of primary and secondary schools in 20 of Sokoto State’s 23 local government areas, warning that the worsening security crisis could deny thousands of children their right to education.

In a statement released on Friday, the human rights organisation said the continued wave of bandit attacks has forced the state government to suspend academic activities across most parts of the state, placing the future of many schoolchildren at risk.

The organisation described the situation as a major setback for education in northern Nigeria, stressing that schools should remain safe environments where children can learn without fear of violence.

Amnesty International noted that repeated attacks and displacement have already disrupted the education of many children, particularly in Sabon Birni Local Government Area, while numerous teachers have fled to safer locations due to insecurity.

It warned that if urgent measures are not taken, an entire generation of children could be left without access to formal education.

The rights group called on the Nigerian authorities to strengthen security around schools, prevent further attacks on communities, and safeguard the lives and educational rights of children across the affected areas.