IBADAN/Nigeria: The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Oyo State Wing, has welcomed the release of teachers and learners who were abducted in Oriire Local Government Area, describing their freedom as a major relief for the education community and a positive development for the state.
The union said the safe return of the victims has brought joy to teachers, students, parents and families who had anxiously awaited their release since the incident occurred.
In a statement jointly signed by the State Chairman, Comrade Hassan Ajibola Fatai, and the Secretary, Comrade Olukayode Salami, the union expressed gratitude that the victims had regained their freedom, noting that the development had restored hope within the education sector.
According to the union, the abduction deeply affected schools and the wider education community, but teachers across the state remained united in support of their affected colleagues while continuing to pray for a safe outcome.
The NUT commended the Federal Government and the Oyo State Government for the efforts that led to the release of the victims, saying the commitment demonstrated by both administrations contributed significantly to the successful outcome.
It also praised security agencies for what it described as their professionalism, resilience and coordinated operations throughout the rescue process, noting that their efforts had reinforced public confidence in the country’s security institutions.
The union further acknowledged the support received from its national leadership, led by Comrade Audu Titus Amba, as well as traditional rulers, religious leaders, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS), the Association of Primary School Head Teachers of Nigeria (AOPSHON), media organisations, civil society groups, members of the global education community and other Nigerians who stood by the victims’ families during the period of uncertainty.
While celebrating the release, the union urged governments at all levels to intensify measures aimed at improving security in and around schools, stressing that a safe learning environment remains essential for quality education.
The union maintained that protecting schools should remain a national priority, adding that teachers must be able to carry out their responsibilities without fear, while learners should have uninterrupted access to education in secure environments.
It reaffirmed its readiness to continue working with governments and other stakeholders to strengthen school safety initiatives and promote policies that protect both teachers and learners across the country.
