The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Oyo State Wing, has expressed deep concern over the abduction of a primary school headmaster in Itesiwaju Local Government Area of the state, calling on security agencies and the government to ensure his immediate rescue.
Tribune Online reports that Mr M.K. Owoade, the Headmaster of Nomadic Basic School, Ogodu, Igbojaye, was abducted by unknown gunmen while working on his farmland on Saturday at about 5:00 p.m.
The incident, according to the union, has heightened fears among teachers, especially following the recent abduction of teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area, whose release came after weeks in captivity.
In a statement jointly signed by the State Chairman of the NUT, Comrade Hassan Ajibola Fatai, and the State Secretary, Comrade Salami Olukayode, the union said it received information about the latest incident through an urgent notification from its Itesiwaju Local Government branch.
The union described the abduction as “deeply disturbing” and said it was another indication of the growing insecurity confronting teachers and other education workers across the country.
“The Nigeria Union of Teachers, Oyo State Wing, has received with deep concern the report of the abduction of Mr. M.K. Owoade, the Headmaster of Nomadic Basic School, Ogodu, Igbojaye, Itesiwaju Local Government Area of Oyo State,” the statement read.
According to the union, the headmaster was kidnapped while attending to his farm, adding that the incident has thrown his family, colleagues and members of the community into anxiety.
The union appealed to the Oyo State Government, security agencies and all relevant authorities to act without delay to secure the release of the school administrator.
“We call on the government, security agencies and all relevant authorities to intensify efforts towards the immediate rescue of our colleague and ensure his safe return to his family,” the union stated.
It stressed that the safety of teachers must remain a priority, noting that educators should not have to live in fear while carrying out their duties or engaging in legitimate means of livelihood.
“This unfortunate incident is another reminder of the growing security challenges facing teachers and education workers. Teachers deserve to work and live in a safe and secure environment without fear of violence or abduction,” the statement added.
The union also called for improved security across schools and communities, urging authorities to strengthen measures that would protect teachers, pupils and other residents from criminal activities.
While expressing solidarity with the abducted headmaster’s family, fellow teachers and pupils, the NUT offered prayers for his safe return.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Mr Owoade’s family, colleagues and pupils at this difficult time. We pray that Almighty God will protect him, grant him a quick and safe return, and continue to keep our communities safe from the scourge of insecurity,” the union said.
The union further urged its members across the state to remain vigilant and continue to support efforts aimed at promoting safety within their schools and communities while awaiting positive news on the rescue of the abducted headmaster.
