The Federal Government and state governors are facing growing pressure to secure the release of dozens of teachers, pupils and students abducted by armed groups in Oyo and Borno states, as protests spread across Nigeria.
The victims were kidnapped on May 15, 2026, in separate attacks. More than 40 teachers, pupils and students were abducted from schools in Ogbomoso and Oriire communities of Oyo State, while 42 schoolchildren were taken from Mussa Ward in Askira-Uba Local Government Area of Borno State.
The incidents have triggered nationwide demonstrations led by the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), civil society organizations and the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), all demanding the immediate and unconditional release of the captives.
Protests were held in several states, including Ogun, Lagos, Oyo, Kwara and the Federal Capital Territory, where demonstrators carried placards condemning attacks on schools and calling on authorities to strengthen security measures.
The House of Representatives also joined calls for urgent action, urging security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the victims and improve protection for schools across the country.
Speaking during demonstrations, labour leaders warned that continued insecurity could disrupt educational activities nationwide if authorities fail to address the growing threat facing teachers and students.
In Oyo State, Governor Seyi Makinde assured citizens that security agencies are working around the clock to secure the release of those still in captivity. He described the abduction as a national tragedy and called for unity in addressing the security challenge.
President Bola Tinubu also announced additional security measures, including the recruitment of forest guards in collaboration with the Oyo State Government and the deployment of specialized security personnel to support rescue operations. He said requests for a military base in the affected communities are receiving urgent consideration.
Meanwhile, families of the abducted pupils and teachers have reportedly rejected relief materials and cash donations from government representatives, insisting that their priority remains the safe return of their loved ones.
The Senate has condemned the abductions, with Senate President Godswill Akpabio describing the attacks as an assault on Nigeria’s future and urging all stakeholders to unite against insecurity. He also called for renewed efforts to strengthen the nation’s security architecture and protect schools from further attacks.
As rescue operations continue, labour unions, student groups and civil society organizations have vowed to maintain pressure on authorities until all abducted teachers and schoolchildren are safely returned home.