The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) on Tuesday called for the immediate, unconditional, and safe release of all teachers and students in captivity nationwide.
The union made the appeal during a nationwide rally in Abuja, expressing solidarity with all abducted teachers and learners.
NUT’s National President, Mr. Titus Amba, recalled that on May 15, seven teachers and 39 students were kidnapped from schools in Oriire Local Government Area, Oyo State. On the same day, over 40 students were abducted from Mussa Primary and Secondary Schools in Askira Uba, Borno State.
He stated that for more than two weeks, the abducted teachers and students remain in captivity under inhumane conditions, causing fear and anguish among their families.
Describing the situation as worrisome, Amba emphasized that teachers were attacked and kidnapped while on duty. He called on the government to protect lives and property.
“Government must intensify efforts to ensure the safety of our environments, schools, property, and lives. It is heartbreaking that two of our colleagues have been gruesomely murdered in Oyo State, while the fate of the others remains unknown.
“We hear the voices of our teachers crying out for help from the government and Nigerians to secure their release,” he said.
Amba announced that due to the ongoing captivity, the NUT has directed all primary and secondary school teachers in Oyo State to withdraw their services from Monday until further notice.
He highlighted that teachers continue to work across Nigeria despite poor conditions because of their noble and selfless commitment to education.
“They shape characters, nurture dreams, prepare future leaders, and build the nation. It is unimaginable that those dedicated to the future of Nigerian children can become victims of such barbaric acts.
“We stand united in saying that the safety of teachers and learners must never be taken lightly. An attack on teachers is an attack on education, and an attack on education is an attack on Nigeria’s future.
“Today, we demand justice and action. We reject the normalization of school attacks, kidnappings, and violence,” he declared.
Amba lamented that each day in captivity is a day of pain, trauma, and uncertainty for the abducted teachers, students, and their families.
He called on the government and security agencies to act swiftly and decisively to rescue all captives and reunite them with their loved ones.
He warned that attacks on schools threaten quality education and threaten Nigeria’s future.
He assured the abducted teachers and students of the union’s support and prayers, vowing to continue advocating for their freedom until they are safely returned.
Amba prayed for the victims’ protection, comfort for their families, and lasting peace and security for Nigeria.
Members of the union displayed placards with messages such as: “No teacher should die in service to humanity,” “Teachers need protection, not condolences,” and “Our schools are for learning, not mourning.”
