IBADAN — Teachers across Nigeria staged nationwide protests and strikes this week demanding stronger security measures for educators and students following the abduction of dozens of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo and Borno states on May 15.
The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) organized coordinated demonstrations and directed members in Oyo State to begin an indefinite strike, closing public primary and secondary schools in protest over the continued captivity of colleagues and pupils. Protests took place in cities including Ibadan, Maiduguri, Lagos, Abuja and others.
In Oyo State's Oriire Local Government Area, gunmen attacked multiple schools, abducting around 39 pupils and seven teachers, according to reports. At least one or two teachers were killed during or after the assaults. A similar incident in Borno State involved the abduction of more than 40 pupils from schools in Askira/Uba.
NUT officials called for the immediate and safe release of all victims and enhanced protection for schools. “Kidnapping has no place in education,” read one banner at protests in Ibadan, as teachers demanded government action to secure learning institutions.
The union threatened to expand the industrial action nationwide if the abducted teachers and students are not rescued promptly. Solidarity rallies occurred across several states, with teachers carrying placards highlighting fears for their safety and the future of education.
State and federal authorities have deployed security forces, including specialized rescue teams, and conducted operations in affected areas, but no major rescues have been reported as of Monday. Details on the exact number of those still in captivity and their condition remain unclear, with varying figures cited by officials and community sources.
The incidents have renewed calls from lawmakers, civil society groups and the United Nations for improved school safety protocols and broader efforts to address insecurity. Protesters and union leaders emphasized the need for consistent protection regardless of region.
As of Monday, protests continued in various locations while rescue operations remained ongoing. The NUT maintained its position on the Oyo strike pending concrete progress on the victims' release.
