…Lauds Govt, Commends Security Operatives
The Oyo States wing of the Nigeria Union of Teachers, NUT, has expressed immense joy at the news of the rescue of the teachers and learners who were abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing their freedom as a victory for humanity and a source of renewed confidence for the education sector.
A statement jointly signed by the chairman of the union, Comrade Hassan Ajibola Fatai, and the secretary, Comrade Olukayode Salami respectively, quoted the union as saying that 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.
Noting that the incident tested the resolve of the education community, the Oyo NUT commended teachers across the state for remaining united and steadfast, while hoping and praying for the safe return of their colleagues and learners.
It particularly expressed profound appreciation to the government of Nigeria, starting from the Federal Government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and the Oyo State government led by Engr. Seyi Makinde, FNSC, DSC, GSSRS for demonstrating the political will needed to ensure that every available resource was deployed towards securing the safe release of the victims.
The NUT also lauded the commitment, professionalism and courage of the security agencies whose tireless operations and collaboration led to the successful rescue of abductees unhurt, describing their efforts as reassuring to citizens and particularly to those within the education sector.
The statement further appreciated the national and regional leadership of the union, led by Comrade Audu Titu Amba, traditional rulers, religious leaders, labour unions – the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC and the Trade Union Congress, TUC, Oyo State Ministry of Establishment and Training, 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.
It said, “While celebrating this joyful development, we commiserate with the families of those gallant colleagues who lost their lives in this unfortunate incident and urged governments at all levels not to relent in their efforts to strengthen security around schools and communities.”
The NUT stressed 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 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.
