The National Association of Nigerian Students (National Association of Nigerian Students) has cautioned against calls for statewide strikes and mass protests over the abduction of teachers and pupils in Oyo State, warning that such actions could unintentionally advance the objectives of criminal elements.
In a statement signed by its National President, Comrade Akinteye Babatunde Afeez, the association described the incident as deeply distressing, noting that the kidnapping of schoolchildren and teachers represents a grave national tragedy that demands urgent and coordinated response.
The statement was issued in reaction to a call by the Campaign for Democratic and Workers’ Rights (Campaign for Democratic and Workers’ Rights) urging the Nigeria Union of Teachers (Nigeria Union of Teachers), the Nigeria Labour Congress (Nigeria Labour Congress) and the Trade Union Congress (Trade Union Congress) to embark on industrial action and mass protests in response to the deteriorating security situation.
While affirming the constitutional rights to freedom of expression and association, NANS stressed that such rights must be exercised with caution during sensitive national security emergencies.
The association argued that shutting down schools, workplaces and economic activities through strikes could inadvertently align with the objectives of terrorists and kidnappers, whose aim is to spread fear, disrupt governance and destabilise communities.
“It breaks the heart to see children sent to school by their parents end up as bargaining chips in the hands of kidnappers,” the statement read, adding that no responsible government would remain indifferent to the continued captivity of innocent schoolchildren.
NANS urged Nigerians to prioritise unity and support ongoing efforts by security agencies to secure the safe release of the abducted victims, rather than resorting to actions that could further complicate rescue operations.
Citing international examples, the association referenced Israel’s response to the 2023 Hamas attacks, noting that citizens maintained national cohesion while supporting efforts to rescue hostages despite political differences.
It also recalled Nigeria’s resilience during past national crises, including the civil war era and periods of political uncertainty, arguing that the country has consistently demonstrated its capacity to overcome existential challenges through collective resolve.
“Nigeria has faced difficult moments before and emerged stronger. We must once again unite to confront insecurity and terrorism,” the statement added.
NANS further emphasised that the fight against terrorism is a shared responsibility requiring collaboration among government, communities and civil society, rather than isolated institutional action.
The association maintained that while governments are temporary, the nation remains permanent, urging all stakeholders to prioritise national stability over sectional or partisan interests.
The statement comes amid heightened public concern over recent school-related abductions in parts of the country, as security agencies intensify efforts to rescue the victims and restore normalcy in affected communities. NANS expressed optimism that the abducted teachers and pupils would soon regain their freedom.
