Kwara teachers protest rising school abductions in Nigeria
The Nigerian Union of Teachers in Kwara State has joined a nationwide protest over the abduction of teachers and students from schools in Oyo State. The rally was organised to express concern about increasing insecurity and to demand urgent government action to protect schools. Mike Modesty, Deputy Secretary-General of the union, criticised the government for failing to safeguard teachers, students, and educational institutions. Protesters carried placards highlighting the dangers faced by schools and called for both local and international support to address the crisis.
What we know
- The protest in Ilorin was held in solidarity with victims of the May 15, 2026 attack in Ahoro-Esinele and Yawota communities, Oriire Local Government Area, Oyo State, where 46 people, including 39 students and seven teachers, were abducted.
- A video surfaced showing the beheading of mathematics teacher Michael Oyedokun, and another teacher was reportedly killed during the initial attack.
- Mike Modesty of the NUT criticised the government’s response and called for international assistance if local efforts are insufficient.
- Protesters warned that no school in Nigeria is safe and suggested that shutting down schools nationwide could be considered if the situation worsens.
- The union highlighted the psychological trauma faced by families of abducted victims and stressed the need for rehabilitation for rescued children.
