The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Oyo State Wing, has called on the government and security agencies to intensify efforts toward the safe and prompt release of pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
The union made the call in a statement signed by its chairman, Mr Ajibola Hassan, and secretary, Mr Salami Olukayode, made available to newsmen in Ibadan on Saturday.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the victims were abducted during an attack on schools in the Ahoro-Esinele and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area.
The union said it was deeply concerned over the continued captivity of the abducted pupils and teachers, describing the situation as distressing and unacceptable.
The NUT said that its concern was heightened by the emergence of another video reportedly released by the abductors, showing the victims in traumatic conditions appealing for their rescue.
“The union views this development as heartbreaking, barbaric and unacceptable.
“No child or teacher deserves to endure such terror.
“Their prolonged stay in captivity is inflicting psychological pain on their families, the school community and the entire teaching profession,” it said.
The NUT called for expedited and more decisive actions from the government and relevant security agencies, stressing that the situation required urgent and coordinated intervention.
“This is not a moment for hesitation. It is a moment for coordinated, intelligence-driven efforts to ensure the immediate and safe release of all abducted pupils and teachers.
“We acknowledge the ongoing interventions by the government and security operatives, but time is of the essence.
“Every additional minute these innocent victims spend in the hands of their abductors deepens the trauma and raises concerns about their welfare,” it added.
The union urged authorities to intensify surveillance, strengthen community intelligence and deploy all necessary operational resources, including diplomatic approaches, to secure the victims’ release.
It also appealed to traditional rulers, community leaders, stakeholders and residents to support security agencies with credible information that could aid rescue efforts.
“The safety of our children and teachers must remain a collective priority,” the union said.
The NUT expressed solidarity with the families of the abductees and assured them of its support and prayers during the period.
It reiterated its commitment to advocating safe learning environments, insisting that schools should remain places of learning and not targets of violence. (NAN)
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