By Ghazali Ibrahim
Public primary and secondary school teachers in Oyo State have commenced an indefinite strike over the continued abduction of teachers and pupils in the state.
The industrial action, directed by the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Oyo State Wing, took effect on Monday, June 1, 2026, as the union intensified pressure on the government and security agencies to secure the release of the victims.
In a statement jointly signed by the state chairman of the union, Hassan Fatai, and secretary, Salami Olukayode, the NUT said the prolonged captivity of the abducted teachers and pupils had created widespread fear among educators and eroded confidence in the safety of schools across the state.
The union noted that the security situation had not only affected teachers but had also discouraged many parents from sending their children to school, thereby disrupting academic activities and creating anxiety in affected communities.
According to the NUT, the strike is intended to draw urgent attention to the plight of the abducted victims and compel authorities to intensify efforts toward their immediate and unconditional release.
The union directed all public school teachers in the state to comply fully with the strike order while remaining peaceful and law-abiding throughout the period of the industrial action.
It also expressed solidarity with the abducted teachers, pupils and their families, assuring them that it would continue to engage relevant authorities until the victims are rescued.
Reaffirming its commitment to the welfare and safety of teachers and learners, the NUT stressed that the protection of school communities must remain a priority for government at all levels.
