Oyo NUT Hails Rescue of Abducted Teachers, Pupils, Calls It Triumph for Education and Humanity

The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Oyo State Wing, has welcomed the successful rescue of the teachers and pupils abducted in Oriire Local Government Area, describing their return as a major triumph for humanity and a reassuring moment for the education sector.

Reacting to the development in a statement issued on Saturday, the union said the rescue had brought immense relief to teachers, learners, parents and the wider education community after weeks of anxiety over the fate of the victims.

The statement, jointly signed by the State Chairman of the union, Hassan Fatai, and the State Secretary, Olukayode Salami, noted that the ordeal had deeply affected schools and families across Oyo State, adding that the safe return of the victims had restored hope and confidence.

Reflecting on the period of uncertainty, the union said, “The incident tested the resolve of the education community,” while commending teachers across the state for standing together in solidarity and remaining hopeful throughout the victims’ captivity.

The union also praised both the Federal and Oyo State governments for their efforts in securing the release of the abducted teachers and learners.

It stated, “We particularly express profound appreciation to the government of Nigeria, starting from the federal government led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Oyo State Government led by Engr. Seyi Makinde, for demonstrating the political will needed to ensure that every available resource was deployed towards securing the safe release of the victims.”

The NUT equally commended the various security agencies involved in the rescue operation, acknowledging their commitment and professionalism throughout the mission.

According to the statement, “We also laud the commitment, professionalism, and courage of the security agencies whose tireless operations and collaboration led to the successful rescue of our people unhurt,” describing the operation as one that has strengthened public confidence, particularly within the education sector.

Beyond government and security agencies, the union extended appreciation to individuals and organisations that stood by the families of the victims during the difficult period.

Among those recognised were the national and regional leadership of the NUT under Comrade Audu Amba, traditional rulers, religious leaders, labour unions, the Oyo State Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, government officials, the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools, the Association of Primary School Head Teachers of Nigeria, media organisations, civil society groups, members of the global education community and numerous Nigerians who offered support.

The statement said, “Your prayers, words of encouragement, and solidarity gave strength to the families of the victims throughout the period of the untold agony and uncertainty.”

While celebrating the rescue, the union also paid tribute to colleagues who lost their lives during the tragic incident, expressing sympathy to their bereaved families.

It stated, “While celebrating this joyful development, we commiserate with the families of those gallant colleagues who lost their lives in this unfortunate incident,” while urging authorities at all levels to intensify measures aimed at protecting schools and surrounding communities from future attacks.

The union stressed that ensuring a secure learning environment must remain a national priority, adding, “Every child deserves to learn in a safe environment and every teacher deserves to carry out his or her professional duties without fear.”

Reaffirming its commitment to improving education in the state, the Oyo NUT pledged to continue working closely with government and other stakeholders to strengthen school safety initiatives and promote quality education.

The union expressed optimism that the experience, though painful, would reinforce collective determination to safeguard the lives of teachers, pupils and every Nigerian child seeking an education.