Hundreds of civil society activists took to the streets of Ibadan on Sunday to protest the continued captivity of pupils and teachers abducted in Oyo State, escalating pressure on authorities to secure their release.
The demonstration, reported by Channels Television, comes amid growing concern over the fate of victims kidnapped from schools in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15, 2026.
Protesters marched through parts of the Oyo State capital carrying placards bearing messages such as “Every Life Matters, Stop the Kidnappers,” “47 Abducted, Scared and Alone,” and “Stand Up! Speak Out!” They called on government and security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the victims and improve security in vulnerable communities.
The protest follows a similar demonstration by teachers in Ogbomoso last week after the abduction incident, which also claimed the life of a teacher.
The crisis has now triggered an indefinite strike by public primary and secondary school teachers across Oyo State. The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) directed its members to withdraw their services from Monday, June 1, until further notice.
In a statement signed by Oyo NUT chairman, Hassan Fatai, the union said the industrial action was prompted by uncertainty surrounding the rescue of the abducted teachers and pupils.
According to the union, the prolonged captivity of the victims has heightened fear among teachers, discouraged school attendance and increased anxiety in affected communities.
The NUT said the strike is intended to draw government attention to the urgent need for the safe release of the abductees. It urged members to remain law-abiding while the action continues.
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State and ordered the deployment of a specialised rescue team to strengthen efforts to free the victims.
Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga disclosed the measures after a Federal Government delegation visited the affected Esiele and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area.
The delegation, led by Femi Gbajabiamila, included Nuhu Ribadu, Tunji Disu, and Christopher Musa.
Government officials also said requests from community leaders for a military base in the area would be forwarded to the President for consideration.
The Federal Government delegation assured residents that President Tinubu remains committed to securing the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers.
