Teachers Stage Nationwide Protest Over School Abductions
By Ranti Thomas
The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has launched a nationwide protest following the abduction of teachers and pupils in Oyo State, with educators across the country demanding stronger protection for schools and immediate action to secure the release of those still in captivity.
The protest comes amid growing outrage over the attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, where gunmen kidnapped pupils, teachers and residents, while also killing a teacher during the incident.
In Oyo and neighbouring Ogun State, teachers gathered at various locations to express their frustration over what they described as the increasing danger facing educators and students in many parts of the country. The union warned that schools can no longer function effectively if teachers and learners continue to live under the threat of attacks and kidnappings.
NUT leaders said the rallies were designed to draw national attention to the security challenges confronting the education sector and to push governments at all levels to take urgent steps to improve safety around schools.
The union also renewed its call for the immediate rescue of all abducted victims, insisting that no child or teacher should remain in captivity while authorities continue rescue efforts.
The protest follows the declaration of an indefinite strike by teachers in Oyo State after the abduction incident. Union officials argued that returning to classrooms without adequate security guarantees would place more lives at risk.
Participants carried placards and banners demanding safer learning environments, improved security presence in rural communities and stronger measures to prevent future attacks on schools.
Education stakeholders have expressed concern that repeated attacks on schools could discourage parents from sending their children to class, especially in communities already affected by insecurity.
Security experts warn that continued abductions targeting schools may undermine educational development and deepen fears among teachers, students and parents.
The Federal Government has since announced additional security measures, including the deployment of forest guards and specialised security teams to support ongoing rescue operations and improve surveillance in vulnerable areas.
However, the NUT insists that more needs to be done, stressing that lasting solutions must include stronger protection for schools, improved intelligence gathering and rapid response mechanisms capable of preventing attacks before they occur.
As demonstrations continue across several states, families of the abducted victims remain hopeful that the renewed public pressure will accelerate rescue efforts and bring their loved ones home safely.