The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) on Tuesday organised coordinated protests across several states of the federation, demanding the immediate rescue of teachers and pupils abducted in Oyo State.
The nationwide demonstrations followed an earlier protest by civil society organisations in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, where participants called on authorities to intensify efforts to secure the release of the victims.
In Ibadan, teachers gathered at the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) secretariat before embarking on a peaceful march through major roads in the city.
Union leaders addressed members before the rally, explaining that the protest was aimed at drawing national attention to the plight of the abducted teachers and pupils.
Protesters carried placards with different messages while chanting solidarity songs and appealing to government authorities and security agencies to act swiftly.
According to the union, the demonstration was not intended to create confrontation but to remind those in authority of their responsibility to protect citizens and guarantee safe learning environments.
In Plateau State, teachers joined the nationwide action and described the abduction as a serious threat to the future of education in Nigeria.
Speaking during the protest in Jos, Plateau State NUT Chairman, Elisha Ayimani, said increasing attacks on schools could discourage teaching and learning if urgent action is not taken.
He called on the Federal Government to prioritise the rescue of the abducted victims and strengthen security around educational institutions.
Ayimani also stated that teachers would continue their industrial action until the abducted teachers and pupils regain their freedom.
The protesters marched from the Old Airport Roundabout to the New Government House in Little Rayfield, where they planned to submit a formal letter to the state government.
In Kano State, the NUT expressed concern over worsening insecurity across the country and urged authorities to implement stronger measures to protect schools, teachers, and students.
Teachers and students in Taraba State also joined the protest, demanding the immediate release of the abducted victims and improved security for schools nationwide.
The protesters stressed that governments at all levels must take concrete steps to ensure educational institutions remain safe for both learners and teachers.
In Edo State, members of the union marched through major streets in Benin City under the leadership of the state NUT Chairman, Lucky Imarouagheru.
The protesters condemned the attack and called for urgent intervention to secure the release of the captives.
Similarly, teachers in Ogun State were joined by members of the Nigeria Labour Congress, affiliate unions, and civil society groups in Abeokuta.
The demonstrators urged security agencies to adopt more effective rescue strategies and ensure the abducted teachers and pupils are safely reunited with their families.
The nationwide protests highlight growing concerns among educators over school safety and the rising threat of insecurity facing Nigeria’s education sector.
Be the first to comment