Oyo teachers call for abducted headmaster’s immediate rescue

By Adejayan Gbenga

The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Oyo State Wing, has called on security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the immediate rescue of M.K. Owoade, the abducted headmaster of Nomadic Basic School, Ogodu, Igbojaye, in Itesiwaju Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The appeal was contained in a statement jointly signed on Monday by the State Chairman of the union, Comrade Hassan Ajibola Fatai, and the State Secretary, Comrade Salami Olukayode. The union said Mr. Owoade was reportedly abducted by suspected gunmen on Saturday, July 11, 2026, while returning from his farmland.

The NUT described the incident as disturbing, saying it reflects the growing insecurity confronting teachers and other education workers, particularly those serving in rural communities. It noted that the report of the abduction was received from its Itesiwaju Local Government Area branch through an urgent notice issued to members.

The union expressed concern that the worsening security situation could discourage teachers from accepting postings to rural areas, warning that persistent attacks on education workers could negatively affect teaching and learning across the state.

It therefore appealed to the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Amotekun Corps and other security agencies to deploy all available resources to rescue the abducted headmaster unharmed and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.

The teachers’ body also urged the Federal Government and the Oyo State Government to strengthen security across vulnerable communities, stressing that improved protection is necessary to safeguard teachers, pupils and other residents from criminal attacks.

According to the union, ensuring the safety of teachers is essential to maintaining confidence in the public education system, adding that educators should be able to discharge their duties without fear of violence or intimidation.

The NUT expressed solidarity with the victim’s family, colleagues and pupils, praying for Owoade’s safe return while encouraging members of the public to provide credible information that could assist security agencies in ongoing rescue efforts. The statement concluded with a prayer for improved security across the country and expressed hope that the abducted headmaster would soon regain his freedom and reunite with his family.