FCT Minister Wike assures safe return of abducted students and teachers amid NUT protests
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
Teachers in Abuja protested the recent wave of school kidnappings across Nigeria, prompting assurances from the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, regarding efforts to secure the release of abducted individuals. The demonstration highlighted growing concerns about the safety of students and teachers following attacks in different parts of the country. Between May 13 and 15, 82 pupils were abducted in separate incidents in Oyo and Borno states. In Borno, 42 pupils were kidnapped from schools in Askira Uba and Chibok Local Government Areas. In Oyo, 40 pupils were abducted from Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community Grammar School, and L.A. Primary School, Esiele, in Oriire Local Government Area, an attack that also resulted in the deaths of a mathematics teacher, a motorcyclist, and a security operative. The Nigerian Union of Teachers directed its members nationwide to participate in solidarity rallies to demand stronger protective measures. Addressing the protesters, Minister Wike stated that the government shares the concerns of affected families and is closely monitoring security agencies' efforts to free those in captivity. He expressed confidence in the security system's capacity to secure the victims' freedom and urged citizens to support ongoing operations. Wike also cautioned against politicizing insecurity, emphasizing that it is a national challenge requiring a common response and greater unity.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
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