Teachers in Ondo State on Tuesday embarked on a solidarity rally in Akure, Ondo State capital, demanding the immediate and unconditional release of their colleagues and pupils abducted a few weeks ago in Oyo State.

The teachers urged Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to urgently strengthen the state’s security architecture and emphasised that the attacks on teachers and students threaten access to education in the country.

The protest, organised under the aegis of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Ondo State chapter, saw the teachers marching from the Teachers’ House through major streets before converging at the Governor’s Office.

The protesting teachers were armed with placards bearing inscriptions such as “Teachers Teach in Peace”, “Secure Every School, Save Every Dream”, and “An Attack on Teachers is an Attack on Education”.

According to the NUT Chairman, Comrade Leke Ayodele, the incident served as a reminder of the growing insecurity confronting the country and the increasing threats to the safety of learners, teachers, and educational institutions.

While expressing concern over the abduction, Ayodele stated that “we strongly condemn this reprehensible act and call on the federal government, the Oyo State Government, and all relevant security agencies to rise to the challenge.”

The NUT Chairman further stressed that “as a union committed to the welfare and safety of teachers and learners, we declare unequivocally that enough is enough.”

“We say no to the kidnapping of teachers, pupils and other innocent citizens. Our schools and learning environments must be safe, secure, and conducive for quality education.

“Learning stops where insecurity begins. Protect education from criminals. Teachers deserve security, not fear. Government must wake up and act now.”

On his part, the Special Adviser to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on Union Matters and Special Duties, Comrade Bola Taiwo, commended the peaceful conduct of the NUT leadership.

“Under the leadership of His Excellency, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the Amotekun Security Network has recruited more personnel. Cordial collaboration with security heads, among others, has helped secure the state.”