Teachers Shut Schools Across Oyo Over Abductions

The Nigeria Union of Teachers directed all public primary and secondary school teachers in Oyo State to embark on an indefinite strike beginning Monday, citing the continued detention of their colleagues and pupils.

In a circular signed by National President Audu Amba and Secretary-General Dr Clinton Ikpitibo, the union described the situation as unacceptable and announced the withdrawal of teaching services until all abductees regain freedom.

“The National Leadership has directed all Primary and Secondary School teachers in Oyo State to withdraw their services from Monday, 1st June, 2026, until the abducted teachers and students are safely released,” the statement read.

The union said reports emerging from captivity painted a disturbing picture of suffering and uncertainty.

According to the NUT, “As a mark of solidarity, the national leadership has directed all state wings of the union to embark on solidarity rallies on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, to press home our demand for the unconditional release of the teachers and learners kidnapped in Oyo and other states of the federation.”

Confirming the directive, Amba said: “We have directed all teachers in Oyo State to remain at home starting from tomorrow (Monday).”

The union noted that previous appeals to authorities had failed to produce results and warned that the safety of schools could no longer be treated as a secondary issue.

The Oyo State chapter of the NUT subsequently directed full compliance with the strike, saying the prolonged captivity of teachers and learners had generated widespread fear within the education sector.

Private School Owners Distance Themselves from Protest

However, the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS) in Oyo State announced it would not participate in the planned rallies.

In a statement signed by its president, Fajobi Olukunle, the association argued that engagement and dialogue remained more productive avenues for addressing insecurity than street demonstrations.

NAPPS also claimed the proposed protest appeared influenced by “political considerations than genuine humanitarian concerns.”

The association reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for safer schools while urging members to remain focused on academic activities.