Oyo Abduction: Teachers Stage Protest in Abuja Over School Safety

Teachers under the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Federal Capital Territory wing, staged a peaceful rally in Abuja on Tuesday to demand stronger security for schools and call for the safe return of students and teachers abducted in different parts of the country.

The protest, which began at the Federal Ministry of Education headquarters and moved through Area 11, brought together teachers, union officials, education stakeholders and supporters. Participants carried placards with messages urging authorities to end attacks on schools and provide a safer environment for learning.

The demonstration followed recent abductions in Oyo and Borno states, where dozens of pupils were taken by armed groups in separate attacks on schools.

Reports indicated that at least 82 pupils were kidnapped between May 13 and May 15 in the two states. In Oyo State, the attack also led to the death of a mathematics teacher, a motorcyclist and some security personnel involved in rescue efforts.

Speaking during the rally, NUT FCT Chairman, Abdullahi Shafa, said the protest was organised in line with directives from the union’s national leadership. He explained that teachers across the country were united in condemning attacks on educators and students.

Shafa described the killing of the Oyo teacher as painful and disturbing, noting that teachers dedicate their lives to educating children and should not become targets of criminals. He said the continued attacks on schools were creating fear among educators, especially those working in rural communities where access to education is already limited.

According to him, the worsening security situation threatens learning activities and discourages teachers from serving in remote areas. He added that when teachers and students are attacked, entire communities suffer because education becomes difficult to access.

The union leader urged government authorities to take urgent steps to secure schools and protect those working and learning within them. He called for improved security measures, including the construction of perimeter fences around schools and better educational facilities.

Shafa said the rally was intended to send a clear message that teachers were unhappy with the growing insecurity affecting the education sector. He added that while the protest was peaceful and limited to one day, the union would await further directives from its national headquarters if the situation persists.

The demonstration ended with participants submitting a letter to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, urging authorities to strengthen school security, safeguard teachers and students, and ensure that those responsible for attacks on educational institutions are brought to justice.