The Nigeria Union of Teachers, NUT, has commenced nationwide solidarity rallies today, Tuesday, June 2, 2026, to demand the release of teachers and students abducted in Oyo and other states.

The union directed all state wings to mobilize for protests terminating at Government Houses, where leaders will address the press. This follows an indefinite strike declared for public primary and secondary school teachers in Oyo State starting Monday, June 1, 2026.

NUT National President, Audu Titus Amba, said the action is in solidarity with victims kidnapped on May 15, 2026, when gunmen attacked three schools in Oriire LGA, Oyo State — Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery & Primary School, and L.A. Primary School. About 39 students, seven teachers were abducted, while two teachers were killed.

Public schools across Oyo were shut on Monday as teachers complied with the strike directive. Only SS3 students sitting for WAEC were allowed access.

Amba said teachers nationwide will join the rallies to press for safer learning environments and the unconditional release of captives. He noted that seven NUT members remain in captivity and described terrorists using abducted students as shields as a major challenge to rescue efforts.

President Bola Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo and deployed a specialized rescue unit to intensify efforts to secure the victims’ release.

Source: Punch Newspapers, Vanguard News