Public schools across Oyo State were shut on Monday as teachers embarked on a peaceful protest over the abduction of students and teachers in Ahoro-Esiele community, Oriire Local Government Area of the state.

The industrial action followed a directive from the National Secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Abuja, which called on members nationwide to stage peaceful demonstrations demanding the release of the kidnapped victims.

The closure affected public schools across the state’s 33 local government areas, with classrooms deserted and academic activities suspended.

In Ibadan, schools in the 11 local government areas were under lock and key, forcing many pupils and students who had arrived for classes to return home.

It was  observed that students of schools located in Molete, Orita Challenge, New Garage and Odo-Ona areas were turned back at the gates, while only Senior Secondary School Three (SS3) students writing terminal examinations were allowed access to school premises.

The protest coincided with a demonstration by concerned citizens who converged on Mokola and marched through major roads leading to Gate, attracting the attention of residents, motorists and business owners.

Carrying placards with various inscriptions, the protesters condemned the abduction and called on the government and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the release of the victims.

The demonstrators chanted, “Bring back our children” and “Enough is enough,” as they demanded urgent intervention to end the growing insecurity threatening schools and communities.

One of the protesters, Mrs Esther Olowokere, described the abduction as a tragic attack on innocent children and teachers.

“They are innocent children and teachers whose only crime was going to school. We cannot continue to live in fear while our schools become targets. The government must act decisively and ensure their safe return,” she said.

Another protester, who requested anonymity, expressed concern over the increasing insecurity around educational institutions.

“Every child deserves to learn in a safe environment. We are here today because we refuse to remain silent while families suffer and communities live in uncertainty,” the protester said.

The demonstrators urged security agencies to intensify search-and-rescue operations, strengthen security around schools and ensure that those responsible for the abduction are apprehended and prosecuted.

They also called on community leaders, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to support efforts aimed at protecting schoolchildren and teachers from criminal attacks.

A teacher who participated in the protest said the action was organised in solidarity with the abducted students and teachers of the Ahoro-Esiele community.

The protesters vowed to sustain peaceful advocacy until the victims are rescued and reunited with their families.