Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Committee for the Defense of Human Rights (CDHR), and various civil society organizations in Ogun State joined the nationwide protest against the abduction of students and teachers in Oyo State yesterday.
Background of the Abductions
Two weeks ago, 39 students and seven teachers were kidnapped during an attack on several schools in the Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. The affected schools include Community Grammar School and L.A. Primary School in Ahoro-Esinle, as well as Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota. The abductors also killed Mr. Michael Oyedokun, a mathematics teacher from Community Grammar School.
Protest Details
On Monday, some residents staged a protest across Abeokuta, the state capital, urging the federal government to rescue the victims. On Tuesday, protesters chanted solidarity songs and carried banners with inscriptions such as “Set our teachers, pupils free from captivity,” “Our chalks were broken by guns: enough we say,” “Release our teachers and learners unconditionally,” “Stop the attacks on schools,” “Government should rise up to its security responsibilities,” “Unchain our children, unchain Nigeria’s destiny,” “NUT is in solidarity with its members in captivity,” “One abducted child, one nation in chain,” and “Nigeria, our blackboards are turning into graveyards.”
Statements from Leaders
CDHR National Chairman Comrade Yinka Folarin urged security agencies to strengthen operations and prioritize human life. He emphasized that the protest aimed to increase public awareness and support against terrorism and violence, stating, “Nigeria belongs to us all. As a matter of responsibility, we are not supposed to live in fear in our country. The government must create an enabling environment, and the people must be ready to support government efforts in maintaining peace and sustainable security.” He added, “We are in a dilemma right now. Our right to movement cannot be guaranteed, and in a very barbaric manner, we see dehumanization and humiliation suffered by the victims. Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere, so every well-meaning Nigerian must rise to voice for the voiceless.”
National President of NUT, Comrade Titus Amba, represented by National Vice President Comrade Titilope Adebanjo, said teachers live in fear and urged President Bola Tinubu to treat the matter with urgency by ensuring the immediate release of those affected.
