Delta Teachers Join Nationwide Protest Against School Abductions

Teachers across Delta State on Tuesday joined a nationwide protest organised by the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) to condemn the rising cases of kidnappings and attacks targeting schools, teachers and students across the country.

The peaceful rally, which commenced from the Teachers’ House in Asaba, saw educators from the 25 local government areas of the state march to the Government House, demanding the immediate and unconditional release of abducted teachers and pupils, particularly those kidnapped in Oyo State.

The protesters carried placards and chanted solidarity songs as they called on government at all levels to take urgent steps to tackle insecurity in schools and protect education workers.

Speaking on behalf of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu, commended the teachers for conducting a peaceful demonstration despite the serious concerns raised.

He assured the protesters of the government’s commitment to protecting lives and property, describing insecurity as a national challenge that affects all Nigerians regardless of profession or location.

The teachers said the protest was triggered by recurring attacks on schools and education personnel across the country. They noted that incidents of school abductions, which once appeared concentrated in parts of northern Nigeria, have continued to spread to other regions.

The union expressed concern over the growing threat facing educators and students, citing recent attacks on schools and kidnappings involving teachers and pupils in several states.

According to the teachers, many educators now carry out their duties under constant fear, a situation they described as detrimental to learning and the future of education in Nigeria.

They called for stronger security measures around schools, improved intelligence gathering, enhanced collaboration among security agencies and community-based protection initiatives.

The protesters also warned that failure to secure the release of abducted teachers and students could lead to further industrial action, including a nationwide shutdown of schools.

The NUT maintained that the safety of teachers and learners must remain a top national priority, stressing that no educator should have to risk their life in the course of providing education.