Members of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Enugu State chapter, on Tuesday staged a peaceful protest at the Enugu State Government House, demanding the immediate and unconditional release of pupils and teachers abducted by gunmen in Oyo State.
The protest formed part of a nationwide solidarity action directed by the national leadership of the NUT following the abduction of schoolchildren and education workers from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on May 15. The victims have remained in captivity, prompting growing concern among educators and parents across the country.
Carrying placards with inscriptions such as “An Attack on Teachers is an Attack on Education” and “Release Our Children and Colleagues Now,” the protesters called on federal and state authorities to intensify efforts to secure the safe return of the abductees. They also expressed concern over the increasing insecurity affecting schools and learning environments nationwide.
Speaking during the rally, union leaders urged the government to prioritise the safety of teachers and learners, warning that continued attacks on schools could undermine access to education and create fear among students, parents, and education workers.
The Enugu demonstration mirrored similar protests held in several states, including Abuja, Akwa Ibom, Osun, and Rivers, where teachers gathered to demand urgent action to rescue the abducted victims and strengthen security around schools.
The nationwide protests follow a directive issued by the NUT’s national leadership after the abduction of pupils and teachers from schools in the Esiele and Yawota communities of Oriire Local Government Area. The union has also called for enhanced security measures to protect educational institutions from attacks.
The Oyo abduction has sparked widespread outrage, with civil society groups, parents, and education stakeholders demanding a more robust response to the country’s security challenges. Protesters in Enugu said the continued captivity of the victims highlights the urgent need for stronger protection of schools and communities across Nigeria.
As of Tuesday, authorities had not announced the release of the abducted pupils and teachers, while security agencies continued efforts to secure their freedom.
