The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has called for the immediate release of teachers and learners kidnapped in Oyo State and other parts of the country, expressing concern over the growing insecurity affecting the education sector.

The demand was made during a solidarity rally organised by the union in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, where members urged authorities to take urgent steps to secure the release of the victims and improve safety in schools nationwide.

Speaking at the rally, Audu Amba, said attacks on teachers and students pose a serious threat to the nation’s educational system.

“Any attack on teachers is an attack on education,” Amba stated, calling on both the federal and state governments to intensify efforts to protect schools, teachers, and learners from criminal attacks.

He reiterated the union’s earlier directive for primary and secondary school teachers in Oyo State to suspend work following the abduction of teachers and students in the state.

The NUT president warned that the union could embark on a nationwide strike if the kidnapped teachers and learners are not rescued and returned safely.

The threat comes amid heightened concerns over the safety of schools across Nigeria, following a series of kidnappings and attacks targeting students and educational institutions in several states.

The union urged security agencies and government authorities to take decisive action to ensure the safe return of the abductees and restore confidence in the country’s education system.