Protests continued across Nigeria on Tuesday as the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT) staged rallies in several states over the abduction of teachers and pupils in Oyo State, who remain in captivity.
The demonstrations followed an earlier peaceful protest by civil society groups in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, on Monday, during which participants demanded the immediate rescue of the abducted victims.
In Ibadan, the nationwide action by teachers began on a solemn note, with protesters gathering at the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) office in the American Quarter area. Union leaders first addressed members, explaining the purpose of the rally before the procession began.
After the briefing, the demonstrators moved out from the NLC Secretariat, marching through different parts of the city. They carried banners and placards with various inscriptions reflecting their concerns, while singing solidarity songs and using megaphones to communicate their message to the public.
NUT Protesters March in Plateau Over Abducted Victims
Leaders of the union repeatedly emphasized that the protest was peaceful and not intended to be confrontational. According to them, the rally was a collective appeal to national conscience, urging government responsibility and the constitutional duty of security agencies to safeguard lives and property.
In Plateau State, teachers also joined the nationwide protest, calling for the urgent rescue of the abducted teachers and pupils. They described the incident as a growing threat to the education sector in Nigeria.
The call was made in Jos as members of the NUT joined their counterparts across the country in demanding the safe return of the victims. Speaking to protesters, Plateau NUT Chairman Elisha Ayimani highlighted the rising cases of kidnappings targeting schools and educators as a serious concern for teaching and learning.
He further urged the Federal Government to act swiftly to secure the release of the abducted victims, stressing the need for urgent intervention. Ayimani also stated that the union would withdraw its services until the captives are safely reunited with their families.
In Jos, protesters marched from the Old Airport Roundabout to the New Government House in Little Rayfield, where they intended to submit a formal letter to Governor Caleb Mutfwang.
The union maintained that ensuring the safety of teachers and students remains essential to the future stability and progress of education in the country.
