The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) on Saturday issued a follow-up statement to express deepening concern over the continued captivity of the pupils and teachers abducted during the tragic attack on schools in the Ahoro-Esinele and Yawota communities precisely in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
According to Com. Hassan Ajibola Fatai, Chairman, NUT, Oyo State Wing and Com. Salami Olukayode,
Secretary, days after our initial public outcry, the situation has grown even more distressing following the emergence of another disturbing video released by the abductors, showing our colleagues in traumatic conditions soliciting for their unconditional release from the den of their abductors.
“The Union views this development as both 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,” they said.adding that, “We hereby call for expedited and more decisive actions from the government and all relevant security agencies. This is not a moment for hesitation. It is a moment for coordinated, intelligence-driven effort to ensure the immediate and safe release of all abducted pupils and teachers.”
They said the NUT acknowledges the ongoing interventions by the government and security operatives, but we emphasize that time is of the essence, saying that every additional minute these innocent victims spend in the hands of their abductors deepens the trauma and raises concerns about their welfare and emotion which has been totally impaired.
“We urge the authorities to intensify surveillance, strengthen community intelligence, and deploy all necessary operational resources not leaving out serious diplomatic approaches to rescue them without any further delay.We also call on local leaders, community stakeholders, and citizens to support security agencies with any credible information that can aid the rescue efforts. The safety of our children and teachers must remain a collective priority.”
The Union said it stands firmly with the families of the abductees, offering our solidarity and prayers during this agonizing period. and remain committed to ensuring that our schools become safe havens, never battlegrounds.
