Public primary and secondary schools across Oyo State are set to shut down as the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Oyo State Wing, has directed all teachers in public schools to commence an indefinite strike from Monday, June 1, 2026, over the continued abduction of teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area.
The union said the industrial action became unavoidable following the prolonged captivity of the victims despite efforts by security agencies and government authorities to secure their release. According to the NUT, the incident has heightened fear and anxiety among teachers, students, parents, and education stakeholders across the state.
In a statement jointly signed by the Chairman of the Oyo State NUT, Hassan Fatai, and the Secretary, Salami Olukayode, the union stated that the strike is aimed at compelling the government and security agencies to intensify efforts toward the immediate and unconditional rescue of the abducted teachers and pupils.
The union stressed that the safety and security of teachers and learners must be treated as a priority, warning that continued attacks on schools and educational communities pose a grave threat to the future of education in the state.The decision marks a major escalation in the union’s response to the abduction.
Earlier, the NUT had appealed to authorities to urgently secure the release of the victims and expressed concern over videos allegedly showing the abducted teachers and pupils pleading for help while in captivity.
The strike also comes amid increasing pressure from teachers, labour activists, and civil society groups who have organized demonstrations and advocacy campaigns demanding decisive government action. Many stakeholders have argued that insecurity in schools has reached an alarming level and requires urgent intervention to protect both educators and students.
The NUT urged all teachers in the state to comply fully with the strike directive while remaining peaceful and law-abiding. The union reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safe return of the abducted victims and restoring confidence in the safety of schools across Oyo State.
