More Teachers Join Nationwide Protest, Shut Down Schools Over Oyo Abduction Crisis

Teachers across Akwa Ibom State will withdraw classroom services on Tuesday as part of a nationwide solidarity action over the abduction of teachers and pupils in Oyo State.

Naija News reports that the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Akwa Ibom State Wing, announced the decision in a letter addressed to the state Commissioner for Education.

According to the union, all primary and post-primary schools in the state will remain closed to enable teachers participate in a peaceful rally.

The union said the protest would begin at the Teachers’ House along IBB Avenue in Uyo and terminate at the Governor’s Office.

“The rally will take place tomorrow, Tuesday 2 June 2026 and will commence from the Teachers’ House, 14 IBB Avenue, Uyo and terminate at the Governor’s Office. Hence, all primary and post-primary schools in the state will remain closed,” the letter stated.

The correspondence was signed by Udeme Ebe, Principal Assistant Secretary, on behalf of the Senior Assistant Secretary-General of the union.

The protest follows the abduction of teachers and pupils from Baptist Nursery and Primary Schools in Esiele and Yawota communities of Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on May 15.

The NUT said some of the victims had reportedly been killed, while others remain in captivity.

The union appealed to the Ministry of Education to support the action, describing it as a necessary response to the plight of the abducted teachers and learners.

In a circular dated May 29 and sent to all state branches, the NUT national leadership described the situation facing the abducted teachers and pupils as disturbing.

The union said it remained worried that the victims were still in captivity despite earlier appeals to government and security agencies.

“We also hear the cry of the School Principal and a teacher passionately appealing to the Federal Government, Oyo State Government, NUT, ANCOPSS and all well-meaning Nigerians to urgently intervene and secure their release,” the national body stated.

The national leadership directed all primary and secondary school teachers in Oyo State to withdraw their services from June 1 until the victims regain their freedom.

It also instructed all state branches to organise solidarity rallies and submit demands to their respective state governments.

According to the directive, the rallies are expected to end at state government houses, where union leaders will address the media and call for improved security in schools.

The union said the latest action reflects growing concerns among teachers over recurring attacks on schools and the safety of both educators and learners.

It recalled a similar nationwide protest organised in 2014 following the abduction of schoolgirls from Government Girls Secondary School, Chibok, in Borno State.

“The Union stands in solidarity with the victims and their families and remains committed to pursuing every lawful means to ensure their safe return,” the circular added.