Oyo Teachers Begin Indefinite Strike Over Abducted Colleagues and Pupils

Public primary and secondary school teachers in Oyo State have commenced an indefinite strike following the continued abduction of several teachers and pupils in the state. The industrial action was declared by the Nigeria Union of Teachers, which directed all public school teachers across Oyo State to withdraw their services starting Monday, June 1, 2026, until further notice.

According to the union, the strike became necessary due to growing concerns over the safety of teachers and students after the abducted victims remained in captivity with no certainty surrounding their rescue and release.

In a statement signed by the Oyo State Chairman of the union, Comrade Hassan Fatai, the NUT explained that the prolonged detention of the abducted teachers and pupils has created fear, anxiety, and tension among educators, parents, and communities across the state.

The union stated that many parents have become reluctant to send their children to school due to increasing insecurity, while teachers are also deeply worried about their safety while carrying out their duties.

According to the union, the strike is intended to draw urgent attention to the need for intensified rescue efforts by relevant authorities.

The NUT urged all teachers to fully comply with the directive while remaining peaceful and law-abiding throughout the period of the industrial action.

The union also reaffirmed its support and solidarity with the abducted teachers, pupils, and their families, promising to continue lawful engagements with government authorities until all victims regain their freedom.

The development comes shortly after Bola Tinubu reportedly directed the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards as part of renewed efforts to secure the release of the kidnapped victims and strengthen security operations in affected areas.

A Federal Government delegation had earlier visited the Ogbomoso area of Oyo State to meet with community leaders and families of the abducted victims.

The delegation included the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; the Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa; the Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu; the Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe; and presidential media aide, Sunday Dare.

During the visit, Gbajabiamila assured residents that the president had directed all security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the abducted teachers and pupils and ensure their safe return.

Meanwhile, Seyi Makinde also visited Ogbomoso over the weekend and appealed to residents for patience, cooperation, and unity as security agencies continue rescue operations.

The governor urged residents not to politicize the incident or blame either the federal or state government, stressing that all authorities are working together to secure the release of the victims.

The abducted teachers and pupils were reportedly taken on May 15, 2026, from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School in Oyo State.

The incident has sparked renewed concerns over insecurity in schools and rural communities, with education stakeholders calling for stronger protection measures to safeguard teachers, students, and learning environments across Nigeria.