The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Oyo State Wing, has described the rescue of the teachers and pupils abducted in Oriire Local Government Area as a victory for humanity and a development that has restored hope to the education sector.
In a statement issued on Saturday and jointly signed by the union’s Chairman, Hassan Fatai, and Secretary, Olukayode Salami, the NUT said the safe return of the victims had lifted a heavy burden from the hearts of teachers, pupils, students, parents, relatives and all lovers of education across Oyo State and beyond.
“The incident tested the resolve of the education community,” the union said, commending teachers across the state for remaining united and steadfast while hoping and praying for the safe return of their colleagues and learners.
The union expressed appreciation to the Federal Government led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Oyo State Government under Governor Seyi Makinde for demonstrating the political will to ensure the safe rescue of the victims.
“We particularly express profound appreciation to the government of Nigeria, starting from the federal government led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Oyo State Government led by Engr. Seyi Makinde, for demonstrating the political will needed to ensure that every available resource was deployed towards securing the safe release of the victims,” the statement read.
The union also commended the security agencies for their professionalism, commitment and courage, noting that their coordinated operations led to the successful rescue of the victims.
“We also laud the commitment, professionalism and courage of the security agencies whose tireless operations and collaboration led to the successful rescue of our people unhurt,” it added.
The NUT further appreciated the national and regional leadership of the union led by Audu Amba, traditional rulers, religious leaders, labour unions, the Oyo State Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS), the Association of Primary School Head Teachers of Nigeria (AOPSHON), the media, civil society organisations, the global education community and other Nigerians for their support during the period of captivity.
“Your prayers, words of encouragement and solidarity gave strength to the families of the victims throughout the period of the untold agony and uncertainty,” the union stated.
While celebrating the successful rescue, the NUT commiserated with the families of the teachers who lost their lives during the incident and urged governments at all levels to strengthen security around schools and communities.
“Every child deserves to learn in a safe environment and every teacher deserves to carry out his or her professional duties without fear,” the union said.
It reaffirmed its commitment to working with government and other stakeholders to promote safe schools programmes and quality education, expressing confidence that the unfortunate incident would strengthen efforts to protect the lives of learners and teachers across the country..
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