Oyo School Kidnap: NUT Begins Nationwide Protest Tuesday

The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has announced plans to embark on a nationwide solidarity protest on Tuesday following the abduction of teachers and students from schools in Oyo State.

National President of the union, Mr. Audu Titus Amba, disclosed the decision on Monday while expressing deep concern over the safety of educators and learners across the country. He said the union was increasingly worried about the continued captivity of the victims and the broader implications of insecurity on Nigeria’s education sector.

According to Amba, the union has already directed teachers in Oyo State to withdraw their services and commence protest actions pending significant progress in efforts to rescue the abducted victims.

He lamented that seven members of the union remain in captivity, describing the situation as unacceptable and a major threat to the future of education in the country.

“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,” he said.

The NUT president noted that insecurity has become a serious challenge to teaching and learning, stressing that schools cannot function effectively in an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty.

He emphasized that education remains critical to national development and called on authorities to ensure that schools are adequately protected from criminal attacks.

Amba also expressed concern over reports that terrorists are increasingly using abducted teachers and students as human shields, a development he said complicates rescue operations and endangers innocent lives.

“We are deeply disturbed by this ugly trend of terrorists using our pupils and students as shields. It is a very dangerous development. Innocent children must not be used in such a manner,” he stated.

The union leader appealed to the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify efforts toward securing the immediate release of all abducted victims and strengthening security around schools nationwide.

He further urged community leaders and local stakeholders to play more active roles in safeguarding educational institutions within their areas.

According to him, security should not be left solely to government agencies, adding that communities must collaborate with authorities to protect schools and prevent future attacks.

The planned nationwide protest is expected to draw attention to the growing insecurity affecting schools and increase pressure on authorities to take decisive action.