Oyo teachers protest, demand release of abducted colleagues, pupils

Teachers and civil society organisations in Oyo State have urged the government to step up efforts to secure the freedom of teachers and pupils kidnapped in Ogbomoso, stressing that schools must remain safe for both educators and learners.

The demand was made during a peaceful protest organised by the Oyo State Teachers Action Group with the backing of the Nigeria Teachers Congress (NTC).

Speaking during the demonstration, the National President of the NTC, Bunmi Thomas, said the protest was intended to draw public attention to the ordeal of the kidnapped teachers and pupils while calling on authorities to take stronger and more immediate measures to secure their release.

Thomas noted that the increasing threats to schools and education workers have become a major concern, adding that the safety of teachers and students should be treated as a top priority. He urged the government and security agencies to intensify rescue efforts and ensure that those responsible for the abductions are brought to justice.

The protesters also called for improved security around schools across the state to prevent similar incidents and restore confidence among teachers, parents, and students. They maintained that no child or educator should have to live in fear while pursuing or providing education.

The group appealed to the authorities to act swiftly, saying the continued captivity of the victims has caused anxiety among families, colleagues, and members of the affected communities.

The teachers and pupils were kidnapped on May 15, 2026, in the Esiele and Yawota communities of Ogbomoso.

“When we heard about the proposed protest by the Oyo State Teachers Action Group, we decided to join them because what they are doing is lawful,” Thomas said.

“They are demanding pragmatic action from the government to secure the release of the abducted teachers and students.”

While acknowledging ongoing rescue efforts, Thomas said more needed to be done to secure the victims’ freedom.

“If the government is trying and the desired result has not been achieved, then more efforts must be intensified. We want the government to do more to rescue the teachers and pupils,” he said.

He expressed concern over the condition of the victims, particularly the children reportedly being held in difficult conditions.

“We have children as young as two and three years old in the bush. They are exposed to rain and harsh weather conditions. These victims are in danger, and nobody knows who could be next,” he lamented.

Thomas also urged the state government to strengthen security around public schools, saying teachers should not be forced to work under fear.

“We want the government to deploy security personnel to public schools. We cannot continue to work while living in danger,” he said.

The NTC president, however, said the protest was not directed against Governor Seyi Makinde, whom he commended for his performance in office.

“No reasonable teacher in Oyo State is against Governor Seyi Makinde because he has performed excellently well. However, we need regular updates on efforts being made to rescue our teachers and students,” he added.

Responding to the protesters, the Executive Assistant to Governor Makinde on Security Matters, retired Commissioner of Police Sunday Odukoya, assured them that the government was actively working to secure the victims’ release.

“It is your constitutional right to protest and let the government know your concerns. This incident is unfortunate, but I want to assure you that the government is not folding its arms over the matter,” he said.

Odukoya explained that certain operational details could not be disclosed so as not to jeopardise ongoing rescue efforts.

“Since this incident happened, Governor Seyi Makinde has been on top of the situation. I have personally visited the area several times, and both the traditional ruler in Esiele and residents of Yawota can attest to the government’s efforts,” he said.

He also assured the protesters that no teacher would be harassed or victimised for participating in the demonstration.

“Governor Seyi Makinde believes strongly in the rule of law. No teacher involved in this protest will be victimised. That has never happened under this administration and it will not happen,” he stated.

Despite the assurances, the protesters urged the government to demonstrate greater urgency in rescuing the victims.

“We are not against the government, but we are appealing to its conscience. The government must intensify efforts and ensure the safe return of the kidnapped teachers and pupils,” the group said.

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