Members of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) on Tuesday staged a protest in Ikeja, Lagos State, demanding urgent action over the abduction of school children and teachers in Oyo State.
The demonstration, which drew a large number of teachers and supporters, was held as concerns continue to grow over the safety of students and education workers across the country.
Protesters marched through parts of the state capital carrying placards and chanting solidarity songs.
They called on security agencies and relevant authorities to intensify efforts to secure the release of the victims and improve security around schools.
In a video seen by 9NEWS NIGERIA, participants were seen displaying different messages highlighting the need for safer learning environments. Some of the placards read, “End the religion of fear in our schools” and “let teachers teach in peace.”
The teachers said the continued attacks on schools pose a serious threat to education and could discourage parents from sending their children to school. They also warned that insecurity in learning institutions could negatively affect academic activities and the welfare of teachers.
The rally comes amid growing public outrage over the recent kidnapping incident in Oyo State. Many Nigerians have continued to urge the government to take stronger measures against criminal groups targeting schools and communities.
Several civil society groups and education stakeholders have also expressed concern over the development, stressing that schools should remain safe spaces for learning and teaching.
The protesters called on both federal and state authorities to act swiftly, rescue the abducted victims, and ensure that similar incidents do not occur in the future.
