NUT members march across multiple states, warning of growing threat to school safety as abducted teachers and pupils remain in captivity…..
Teachers under the umbrella of the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT) on Tuesday staged coordinated protests across several states, demanding the immediate rescue of teachers and pupils abducted in Oyo State and stronger security measures for schools nationwide.
The nationwide demonstrations followed an earlier peaceful protest by civil society groups in Ibadan on Monday, as pressure mounts on authorities to secure the release of the victims.
In Oyo State, the protest began on a solemn note as teachers gathered at the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) secretariat in the American Quarter area of Ibadan before embarking on a procession through major parts of the city.
Union leaders addressed members before the march, explaining that the demonstration was a collective appeal to government and security agencies to act swiftly, rather than a confrontational action.
Participants carried placards with inscriptions calling for urgent intervention, while chanting solidarity songs and engaging members of the public on the purpose of the protest.
Similar demonstrations were recorded across the country, with teachers in Plateau State taking to the streets in Jos to demand the immediate release of the abducted victims.
Plateau NUT Chairman, Elisha Ayimani, warned that the rising trend of attacks on schools poses a serious threat to the education sector, describing the situation as unacceptable.
He urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts to secure the release of the abducted teachers and pupils, adding that the union would down tools until the victims are rescued and reunited with their families.
In Kano State, the teachers’ union also joined the nationwide protest, expressing concern over the worsening security situation and its impact on learning environments.
In Taraba State, teachers and students marched in solidarity, calling on government authorities to fulfil their responsibility of protecting schools and ensuring the safe return of abducted victims.
Edo State joined the protest movement as NUT members, led by state chairman Lucky Imarouagheru, marched through major streets in Benin City carrying placards condemning the abduction and demanding swift government action.
In Ogun State, teachers were joined by members of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), affiliate unions and civil society organisations in Abeokuta, all calling for urgent rescue efforts and improved security responses.
Protesters in the state also urged authorities to adopt more effective strategies to ensure the safe return of the abducted teachers and pupils.
In Yobe State, NUT members marched to the Government House in Damaturu, where they called on the Federal Government to act decisively, describing repeated attacks on schools as a major setback to education in the country.
Adamawa State teachers also took part in the nationwide action, marching through parts of Yola with placards and chants demanding better protection for schools and urgent rescue operations.
The protesters in Adamawa were received at the Government House by the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Dr. Edgar Amos, who assured them that their concerns would be communicated to the appropriate authorities.
Across all participating states, the unions emphasized that the safety of teachers and students is central to the survival of Nigeria’s education system, warning that continued attacks could undermine learning and discourage participation in schooling.
The coordinated protests reflect growing national concern over school insecurity, as teachers continue to press for urgent government intervention to secure the release of abducted victims and prevent further attacks on educational institutions.
