Outraged residents and activists took to the streets of Ibadan on June 1, 2026, demanding the immediate rescue of 47 pupils and teachers who have been missing since a May 15 ambush in Oriire Local Government Area, Oyo State. The protests, which saw hundreds of demonstrators marching through major parts of the city, came as the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) launched an indefinite strike across all public schools in the state.
Protest Details
The demonstrators carried placards with messages such as "Every Life Matters, Stop the Kidnappers," "47 Abducted, Scared and Alone," and "Stand Up! Speak Out!" The protest follows a similar demonstration in Ogbomoso days earlier. The kidnapped individuals include pupils and teachers from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School in the Esiele and Yawota communities.
NUT Indefinite Strike
The Nigeria Union of Teachers ordered a total strike, locking school gates until the abducted colleagues and pupils are returned safely. In a statement by Comrade Hassan Fatai, Chairman of the Oyo State chapter, the union said the indefinite strike began on June 1, 2026, due to the uncertainty surrounding the victims' fate. The union urged all public primary and secondary school teachers to withdraw services peacefully and stay at home while the strike lasts.
Government Response
President Bola Tinubu approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards for Oyo State and deployed a specialised rescue team to intensify efforts to secure the release of the abductees. The announcement was made on Sunday by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga after a Federal Government delegation visited the affected communities. The delegation, led by Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, included National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu, Minister of Defence Christopher Musa, and Special Adviser on Media and Public Communications Sunday Dare. They reassured residents of the government's commitment to ensuring the safe return of all victims.
Security Measures
President Tinubu also directed a specialised security unit with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify operations. The delegation informed community leaders that their request for a military base in the area would be conveyed to the President for consideration. The incident has raised concerns about school insecurity in Nigeria, with stakeholders calling for stronger protection measures to prevent future attacks.
