The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has called for immediate and intensified rescue operations to secure the release of teachers and pupils abducted during attacks on schools in Ahoro-Esinele and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
In a statement released on Saturday in Ibadan, the state Chairman, Hassan Fatai, alongside Secretary Salami Olukayode, expressed alarm over the prolonged captivity of the victims, warning that it is taking a heavy emotional toll on their families and the education sector.
The union said the situation has become even more distressing following the circulation of a video by the abductors showing the victims in distress, pleading for their freedom.
Describing the development as disturbing and unacceptable, the NUT stressed that no child or educator should be subjected to such conditions.
According to the statement, the continued detention of the victims is deepening psychological trauma among relatives, colleagues, and the wider teaching community, while urging authorities to act without delay.
The union appealed for a coordinated, intelligence-led response from security agencies and government authorities to ensure the safe return of all abducted persons, noting that urgency is critical.
While acknowledging ongoing rescue efforts, it insisted that the situation requires stronger and faster intervention, warning that delays could worsen the condition of the victims.
It further urged security operatives to strengthen surveillance, improve intelligence gathering at the community level, and deploy all necessary resources to secure the release of the abductees.
The NUT also called on traditional rulers, community leaders, and residents to assist security agencies with credible information that could aid rescue operations.
The Union, however, declared that schools must remain protected spaces rather than sites of fear or violence, and expressed solidarity with affected families.