The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has expressed deep concern over the continued captivity of pupils and teachers abducted during coordinated attacks on schools in Ahoro-Esinele and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
- +NUT urges swift rescue of kidnapped Oyo teachers, students
In a statement issued on Saturday by the state Chairman, Hassan Fatai, and Secretary, Salami Olukayode, in Ibadan, the union said the prolonged captivity is causing severe psychological distress to families, the school community, and the teaching profession.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the state Chairman, Hassan Fatai, and Secretary, Salami Olukayode, in Ibadan, the union said the prolonged captivity is causing severe psychological distress to families, the school community, and the teaching profession.
The union called for urgent and more decisive action from the government and security agencies, while acknowledging ongoing interventions.
It said the situation had become more distressing following the release of a video by the abductors showing the victims in traumatic conditions appealing for their release.
“The union views this development as both heartbreaking, barbaric and unacceptable. No child or teacher deserves to endure such terror,” the statement said.
“Their prolonged stay in captivity is inflicting psychological pain on their families, the school community, and the entire teaching profession. We hereby call for expedited and more decisive actions from the government and all relevant security agencies.”
It added: “This is not a moment for hesitation. It is a moment for coordinated, intelligence-driven effort to ensure the immediate and safe release of all abducted pupils and teachers. The NUT acknowledges the ongoing interventions by the government and security operatives, but we emphasize that time is of the essence.
“Every additional minute these innocent victims spend in the hands of their abductors deepens the trauma and raises concerns about their welfare and emotion which has been totally impaired.”
The union urged authorities to intensify surveillance, strengthen community intelligence, and deploy all necessary operational and diplomatic measures to secure the release of the victims.
It also called on community leaders and residents to support security agencies with credible information that could aid rescue efforts.
The NUT expressed solidarity with the families of the abducted victims, saying it remains committed to ensuring schools remain safe environments.
“We remain committed to ensuring that our schools become safe havens, never battlegrounds. We demand swift and responsive actions, renewed commitment, and unwavering resolve from all authorities involved,” the statement added.
