NUT Begins Nationwide Rally, Demands Release of Schoolchildren, Teachers
More than two weeks after armed men abducted pupils and teachers from schools in Oyo and Borno states, many families remain in distress as the children continue to endure uncertainty and trauma. The closure of public schools in parts of the country and the nationwide rallies organized by the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) underscore the growing threat that insecurity poses to children’s right to education, safety, and protection.
Schools should be safe spaces where children can learn, grow, and develop without fear. Instead, the abductions have disrupted education, exposed children to psychological harm, and heightened anxiety among parents and communities.
Across Oyo and Ogun states, residents, civil society groups, labour activists, and parents took to the streets to demand the immediate release of the affected persons. Many protesters expressed concern about the conditions the abducted children may be enduring in captivity. Parents also spoke of the emotional burden of imagining young children exposed to harsh weather, fear, and uncertainty.
Meanwhile, teachers have chosen to organise solidarity rallies nationwide while keeping most schools open. The union argued that shutting down schools across the country would further deny children access to education and reward those seeking to intimidate learning institutions.
Child rights advocates continue to stress that every child deserves equal protection, regardless of location. This concern was echoed by groups in the North-East, which called for the same level of urgency in responding to school abductions across all parts of Nigeria.
As the protests continue, stakeholders are urging governments and security agencies to prioritize the safe return of all abducted pupils and teachers. They are also calling for stronger measures to protect schools, prevent future attacks, and ensure that every child can learn in a safe and secure environment.
