Teachers in all public primary and secondary schools across Oyo State have begun an indefinite strike from today, Monday, June 1, in protest against the recent abductions of teachers and schoolchildren in the state.
The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) issued the directive on Sunday following the abduction of teachers and students from Community Grammar School, Ahoro-Esinele; L.A. Primary School, Ahoro-Esinele; and Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, near Ogbomoso in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15.
The NUT explained that the ongoing captivity of the abducted teachers and pupils, as well as the uncertainty surrounding their rescue, prompted the decision to withdraw services. In a statement signed by the union’s secretary, Mr. Olukayode Salami, the union instructed all public primary and secondary school teachers in Oyo State to stay away from classrooms effective June 1, until further notice.
The NUT urged members to fully comply with the directive, remain law-abiding, and stay safe at home. It reaffirmed its solidarity with the abducted teachers, pupils, and their families, pledging continued support during this difficult time. The union also noted that the prolonged detention of the victims has heightened fear and anxiety among teachers and discouraged parents from sending their children to school, thereby increasing tension in affected communities.
According to the union, the strike is intended to draw the attention of government authorities to the urgent need to intensify efforts to ensure the safe release of the abductees. The NUT emphasized that it would continue lawful engagements with relevant authorities until the victims regain their freedom and reiterated its commitment to the welfare, safety, and security of teachers and learners nationwide.
The announcement of the indefinite strike coincided with a visit by a high-powered Federal Government delegation, led by the Chief of Staff to the President, Mr. Femi Gbajabiamila, to Ahoro-Esinele and Yawota communities on Sunday. The delegation conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s concern over the abductions and announced the approval for recruiting 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State in collaboration with the state government to boost security in affected areas.
The delegation also relayed community leaders’ request for a military base in the area to the President for consideration. President Tinubu has directed a specialized security unit with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify efforts to secure the release of the abducted teachers and pupils.
Addressing residents, Gbajabiamila assured parents and community members that the rescue operation would be intelligence-driven and carefully coordinated to ensure the victims’ safe return. He conveyed the President’s commitment to bringing the abducted children and teachers home safely and assured the community that every available resource would be deployed for their rescue.
The delegation also visited the palace of the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, to commiserate with him and his people. Additionally, they met with Mrs. Mary Oyedokun, the wife of a deceased schoolteacher, and her two children, offering the President’s condolences and assurances of government support for the bereaved family.
