School Abductions: Protest Erupts in Oyo, Ogun as NUT Begins Nationwide Rally

Public primary and secondary schools across Oyo State were shut on Monday as teachers joined a protest organised by the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) over the continued captivity of pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Ahoro-Esienle and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area.

The action came ahead of a nationwide solidarity rally scheduled for Tuesday, with teachers across the country expected to converge on state government secretariats to demand the immediate release of abducted learners and education workers.

The victims were kidnapped on May 15, 2026, when armed men attacked Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School in the Esienle and Yawota communities, sparking nationwide outrage.

Compliance with the strike directive was widespread across Oyo State, with academic activities suspended in all 33 local government areas. Students who had prepared for school were turned back home after learning of the shutdown.

In Ogbomoso, residents joined teachers and activists in peaceful demonstrations, calling for urgent government intervention. Emotional scenes were witnessed as relatives of some abducted children appealed for their safe return.

Civil society organisations, including members of the Take-It-Back Movement, also staged protests in Ibadan, carrying placards demanding stronger security measures and an end to kidnappings.

Similar demonstrations took place in neighbouring Ogun State, where residents marched through Abeokuta demanding the rescue of the victims and stronger action against insecurity.

Speaking during the protest, participants expressed fears over the growing wave of kidnappings and attacks on schools, warning that no community was immune to the security crisis.

The NUT said the nationwide rallies were intended to draw attention to the worsening security situation affecting schools across Nigeria. While schools in Oyo remained closed, the union clarified that schools in most other states would remain open during the solidarity protests.

NUT leaders urged governments at all levels to prioritise the safety of schools and ensure that pupils, students and teachers can learn and work without fear.

Meanwhile, the North East Civil Society Network accused the Federal Government of applying double standards in responding to school abductions, while community groups and stakeholders continued to call for intensified rescue efforts and improved security across the country.