The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has announced a nationwide solidarity protest scheduled for Tuesday over the abduction of teachers and students from schools in Oyo state.
Speaking with newsmen on Monday, Audu Titus Amba, the national president of the union expressed concern over the continued captivity of the victims and described the situation as unacceptable.
“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,” Amba said.
He lamented the deteriorating security situation across the country, stressing that schools cannot function effectively in an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty.
“There is no doubt that the security situation in the country has become a serious concern. 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 stated.
Amba disclosed that the union had already directed teachers in Oyo state to withdraw their services and embark on protests beginning Monday, adding that the action would be extended nationwide from Tuesday.
“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. I can also tell you that by Tuesday, teachers across the country will join in a nationwide solidarity protest,” he said.
The NUT president called on the federal government and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the release of the abducted teachers and students, while urging authorities to strengthen security around schools to prevent future attacks.
He also appealed to community leaders to take a more active role in safeguarding educational institutions.
“We are appealing to community leaders to rise to the challenge of securing our schools. They must not fold their arms when it comes to protecting school environments. Security is everyone’s responsibility, and we must work together to safeguard our pupils and students,” Amba said.
The union further raised concerns over what it described as a disturbing trend of terrorists using abducted pupils and students as human shields, a development it said was complicating rescue operations.
“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 added.
The planned nationwide protest comes amid growing outrage over the abduction of teachers and students in Oyo State, with education stakeholders demanding urgent action to guarantee the safety of schools and ensure the immediate release of those still in captivity.
