Teachers, CSOs Protest in Ibadan, Demand Rescue of Abducted Pupils and Teachers
Teachers and civil society organisations on Friday staged a protest in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, calling on the government to intensify efforts to secure the release of teachers and schoolchildren abducted during an attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area.
The victims were kidnapped on May 15 when armed men reportedly invaded Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community Grammar School, Esiele; and L.A. Primary School in Ogbomoso, all within Oriire LGA.
Reports indicate that at least 45 pupils and teachers were abducted during the coordinated attack.
The protest was organised by the Oyo State Teachers Action Group in collaboration with the Nigeria Teachers Congress, drawing attention to growing concerns over the safety of teachers and students across the state.
Addressing the demonstrators, Bunmi Thomas said the union joined the protest in solidarity with the victims and their families.
According to him, the demonstration was aimed at drawing greater attention to the plight of the abducted persons and urging the government to strengthen rescue operations.
“When we heard about the proposed protest by the Oyo State Teachers Action Group, we were satisfied and decided to join them because what they are doing is lawful,” Thomas said.
He noted that while efforts may already be underway to secure the release of the victims, authorities must intensify actions to achieve the desired outcome.
Thomas expressed concern over the condition of the abducted children, some of whom he said are as young as two and three years old, warning that they are exposed to harsh weather conditions and other dangers while in captivity.
He also called for improved security measures in public schools, including the deployment of security personnel to educational institutions across the state.
“This protest is not against Governor Seyi Makinde or his administration. We simply want more action to ensure the safe return of the abducted teachers and pupils,” he added.
Responding to the protesters, Sunday Odukoya assured them that the Oyo State Government is actively working to secure the release of the victims.
Odukoya explained that certain operational details could not be disclosed publicly in order to avoid jeopardising ongoing rescue efforts.
The protest highlights growing anxiety among education stakeholders over security challenges facing schools and the need for stronger measures to protect pupils, teachers and learning environments across the state.
