The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has announced plans for a nationwide solidarity protest on Tuesday following the abduction of teachers and students in Oyo State.
The union said the action is aimed at pressing for urgent efforts to secure the release of the kidnapped victims and to draw national attention to the worsening insecurity affecting schools.
Speaking on Monday, the National President of the NUT, Mr. Audu Titus Amba, expressed concern over the situation, saying several teachers remain in captivity and describing the development as deeply distressing.
“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.
He also raised alarm over reports that abducted pupils and teachers are being used as human shields by armed groups, warning that such tactics are making rescue operations more difficult.
Amba stressed that the safety of schools must be prioritised, warning that teaching and learning cannot continue in unsafe environments.
“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 said.
He confirmed that teachers in Oyo State had already been directed to withdraw their services and begin protests from Monday, while a nationwide solidarity action would follow the next day.
“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 added.
The NUT president called on government authorities to urgently strengthen security around schools and also urged community leaders to take active responsibility in safeguarding educational institutions.
He further condemned the use of children as shields by criminals, describing it as a disturbing and unacceptable trend that must be stopped immediately.
