Teachers Declare Nationwide Protest Over Oyo School Abduction

The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has announced plans for a nationwide solidarity protest on Tuesday over the abduction of teachers and pupils in Oyo State, warning that the safety of schools across the country can no longer be guaranteed.

The union said the action became necessary following the continued captivity of educators and students abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of the state, expressing frustration over the slow pace of rescue efforts.

NUT National President, Mr Audu Titus Amba, said the union was deeply troubled by what he described as the use of abducted victims as human shields by criminals, a situation he said was complicating rescue operations.

“I don’t think any Nigerian is happy with the situation on our hands. Seven of my members are currently in captivity. Enough is enough,” Amba said.

He stressed that the worsening security situation had made teaching and learning increasingly difficult, warning that schools cannot function effectively under fear and uncertainty.

“If the school environment is not safe, how are we going to teach? How will the children learn? Education is critical, and our schools must be safe for teaching and learning,” he added.

Amba disclosed that teachers in Oyo State had already been directed to withdraw their services and begin protest actions from Monday, as part of immediate responses to the abduction.

According to him, the nationwide protest scheduled for Tuesday would extend the agitation to all states of the federation in solidarity with affected colleagues.

“So far, it appears that no tangible result has come from efforts to rescue the victims. We directed teachers in Oyo State to boycott classes and begin protests from Monday. By Tuesday, teachers across the country will join in a nationwide solidarity protest,” he said.

The union leader called on the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify efforts toward securing the release of the abducted victims, while also strengthening protection around schools nationwide.

He also urged community leaders to take a more active role in safeguarding educational institutions within their areas, stressing that security should not be left to government alone.

“We are appealing to community leaders to rise to the challenge of securing our schools. Security is everyone’s responsibility, and we must work together to safeguard our pupils and students,” he said.

Amba further condemned what he described as the growing practice of using children and teachers as protective shields by armed groups, describing it as unacceptable and inhumane.

“We are deeply disturbed by this ugly trend. Innocent children must not be used as shields. It is a very dangerous development,” he warned.