Oriire: Oyo NUT hails rescue of abducted teachers, students

The Oyo state wing of Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) on Saturday hailed the rescue of all the teachers and students abducted by gunmen at Ahoro Esiele.

NUT in a statement jointly signed by the Chairman of the union, Comrade Hassan Ajibola Fatai, and the Secretary, Comrade Olukayode Salami described the rescue as a victory for humanity and a source of renewed confidence for the education sector.

According to the union, the safe return of the victims has lifted a heavy burden from the hearts of teachers, pupils, students, parents, relatives and all lovers of education across Oyo state and beyond.

Oyo NUT maintained that the incident tested the resolve of the education community and commended teachers across the state for remaining united and steadfast while hoping and praying for the safe return of their colleagues and learners.

It also expressed appreciation to the government of Nigeria from the federal government led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the Oyo state g.overnment 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.

Lauding the commitment, professionalism, and courage of the security agencies whose tireless operations and collaboration led to the successful rescue of our people unhurt, the union described their efforts as reassuring to citizens and particularly to those within the education sector.

Oyo NUT commiserated with the families of those gallant colleagues who lost their lives in this unfortunate incident, urging the governments at all levels not to relent in their efforts to strengthen security around schools and communities.

Stressing that 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 appreciated the National and Regional Leadership of the union led by Comrade Audu Titu Amba, traditional rulers, religious leaders, labour unions (NLC), Oyo State MoES&T, government functionaries, ANCOPSS, AOPSHON, media, civil society organisations, global education community and countless Nigerians whose prayers, words of encouragement, and solidarity gave strength to the families of the victims throughout the period of the untold agony and uncertainty.

Oyo state NUT reaffirmed its commitment to working with government and relevant stakeholders to promote safe schools programmes, quality education, expressing confidence that the unfortunate incident would further strengthen collective resolve to protect lives and the future of every Nigerian.