Academic activities across public schools in Oyo State were disrupted on Monday as teachers complied with a nationwide directive by the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) to stage a peaceful protest over the abduction of teachers and students in Oriire Local Government Area.

The protest, coordinated by the union's national leadership, was aimed at demanding the immediate release of 47 teachers and students reportedly abducted from public and private schools in the Ahoro Esiele community of Oriire LGA.

In line with the directive issued from Abuja, public schools across the eleven local government areas of Ibadanland remained shut, with school gates locked and classrooms empty as teachers withdrew their services in solidarity with the victims.

Students who arrived at schools in areas such as Molete, Orita Challenge, New Garage and Odo Ona were turned back, as teaching and learning activities were suspended for the day. However, Senior Secondary School Three (SS3) students writing their terminal examinations were allowed access to school premises.

A teacher, who spoke anonymously, said the protest was intended to draw attention to the plight of the abducted teachers and students, who have reportedly remained in captivity for more than two weeks.

“We cannot begin to imagine the pain, fear and trauma the victims have endured over the past 18 days,” the teacher said. “We appeal to both the Federal Government and the Oyo State Government to intensify efforts and take urgent action to secure their safe and unconditional release.”

The demonstration also received support from civil society organisations and concerned residents, who called for enhanced security measures around schools and stronger efforts to prevent future attacks on educational institutions.

The incident has renewed concerns over the safety of schools and the growing threat posed by kidnappings, with stakeholders urging authorities to prioritise the protection of students, teachers and educational facilities across the country.