The National Union of Teachers (NUT), Oyo State Chapter, has directed all public and private schools across the state to suspend academic activities from today in a protest against the recent kidnapping of pupils and teachers by suspected bandits.
The union said the action was aimed at drawing attention to the growing insecurity affecting educational institutions and demonstrating solidarity with the victims and their families.
In a statement issued late Sunday, the state leadership of the union expressed deep concern over what it described as persistent attacks on schools and the safety of both learners and education workers.
According to the union, the temporary closure of schools would serve as a peaceful protest and a call on relevant authorities to intensify efforts toward securing the release of the abducted pupils and teachers while strengthening security around schools.
“We cannot continue to expose our children and teachers to danger while criminal elements operate with impunity. This stay-at-home action is a message that the safety of every child and education worker must be treated as a priority,” the statement read.
The union urged parents, guardians, teachers and school proprietors to comply with the directive and keep pupils at home until further notice.
The development has generated widespread reactions among residents, with many parents expressing concern over the security situation and calling on government authorities to take decisive action.
Education stakeholders and civil society groups have also appealed for enhanced protection of schools, particularly in vulnerable communities, warning that continued attacks could undermine access to quality education.
As of press time, security agencies had not issued an official statement on the latest abductions, while efforts to secure the release of the victims were said to be ongoing.
The NUT reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare of teachers and students, insisting that the protection of lives must remain paramount in the state’s education sector.
