The Akwa Ibom State chapter of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has ordered the closure of all schools in the state as its members join a nationwide protest over the recent abduction of teachers and pupils in Oyo State.
The union’s action is in solidarity with colleagues, parents, and students affected by the kidnapping of staff and schoolchildren from Baptist Nursery and Primary Schools in Esiele and Yawota communities, Oriire Local Government Area, Oyo State.
In a letter dated June 1, 2026, addressed to the state’s Commissioner for Education, the union confirmed that teachers in Akwa Ibom would participate in a peaceful protest in line with directives from the NUT’s national leadership.
The letter, signed by Senior Principal Assistant Mr. Udeme Ube on behalf of the Senior Assistant Secretary-General, emphasized that the demonstration seeks the unconditional release of the abducted victims and aims to highlight the rising insecurity in schools across the country.
“The situation is deeply disturbing, with reports that some victims may have been killed while others remain in captivity,” the union stated, calling for urgent government intervention to protect both teachers and students.
The NUT appealed to the administration of Governor Umo Eno to understand the necessity of the sympathy protest, noting the traumatic experiences endured by families affected by the kidnappings.
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The union stressed that the rally, which will start at the Teachers’ House in Uyo and conclude at the Government House, is a show of solidarity with Oyo State educators and a call for stronger measures to safeguard educational institutions.
“All primary and post-primary schools in the state will remain closed during the protest,” the union confirmed, urging the Ministry of Education to support teachers in joining the national action.
The NUT underscored that the protest aims to draw nationwide attention to the deteriorating security situation in schools and press authorities to take decisive steps to ensure safe learning environments.
