Delta Teachers Joins Nationwide Protest Demanding The Release of Oyo Abducted Students

Teachers across Delta State on Tuesday joined a nationwide protest organised by the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) to condemn the rising cases of kidnappings and attacks on schools, teachers and students across the country.

The peaceful rally, which began at the Teachers’ House on DLA Road, Asaba, saw teachers from the state’s 25 local government areas march to the Government House, demanding the immediate and unconditional release of abducted teachers and pupils, particularly those kidnapped in Oyo State. The protest was led by the Delta State Chairman and Secretary of the NUT, Comrades Poubeni Dickson and Dan Basime.

Addressing the protesters on behalf of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Kingsley Emu, commended the teachers for their peaceful conduct and assured them of the government’s commitment to protecting lives and property. He described insecurity as a national challenge affecting all Nigerians and pledged continued collaboration with security agencies to secure the release of abducted victims and strengthen safety measures.

The teachers said the protest was prompted by renewed attacks on schools and education workers nationwide. They recalled the 2014 abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls and noted that similar incidents have continued in several states, disrupting academic activities and creating fear among teachers and students.

The union warned that insecurity is spreading beyond northern Nigeria, citing recent incidents in Oyo, Kwara and Delta states, including attacks on schools in Agbarho and Sapele, as well as the killing of an abducted teacher in Oyo State. They described the situation as a growing threat to education and the safety of educators.

The teachers called for stronger security around schools, improved intelligence gathering, community-based protection measures and better coordination among security agencies. They also warned that failure to secure the release of abducted colleagues and students could result in further industrial action, including a nationwide shutdown of schools.