Academic activities across public schools in Oyo State were disrupted on Monday as teachers joined a nationwide protest demanding the immediate rescue of dozens of teachers and students abducted in Oriire Local Government Area.
The action followed a directive from the National Secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), which called on members to embark on a peaceful demonstration in solidarity with the victims who have remained in captivity for more than two weeks.
As the protest gained momentum, public schools across Ibadan and several other parts of the state remained closed, leaving classrooms empty and school gates locked.
Many students who arrived at their schools hoping to attend classes were forced to return home after discovering that academic activities had been suspended.
Areas such as Molete, Orita Challenge, New Garage, and Odo Ona witnessed deserted school compounds as teachers complied with the union’s directive.
However, reports indicated that Senior Secondary School Three (SS3) students writing their terminal examinations were allowed access to school premises to avoid disrupting their academic schedule.
Teachers Demand Immediate Rescue
The protest was organised to draw attention to the plight of the abducted victims and increase pressure on authorities to secure their freedom.
The kidnappings, which occurred in Ahoro Esiele community in Oriire Local Government Area, have continued to generate widespread concern among parents, teachers, and residents.
Speaking on the development, some teachers expressed deep concern over the condition of the victims, noting that the prolonged captivity has subjected them to unimaginable fear, trauma, and uncertainty.
According to them, the protest is not only about demanding action but also about showing support for colleagues and students whose lives have been thrown into chaos.
Growing Calls For Government Action
Participants in the protest urged both the Federal Government and Oyo State Government to intensify efforts toward rescuing the victims and preventing similar attacks on schools.
Many argued that educational institutions should remain safe spaces for learning and not become targets for criminal activities.
The incident has once again reignited concerns about insecurity in schools and the growing threat posed by kidnappers operating across different parts of the country.
Civil Society Groups Join The Call
The protest has also attracted support from civil society organisations, community leaders, and concerned residents who believe stronger security measures are urgently needed.
Several groups have called for improved protection of schools, increased security presence in vulnerable communities, and tougher action against criminal elements responsible for attacks on students and teachers.
As families continue to wait anxiously for good news, the demand remains clear: bring the abducted teachers and students home safely.
Source: Adapted from reports on the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) protest and developments surrounding the Oyo school abduction.
