Teachers in all public primary and secondary schools in Oyo will stay away from classrooms from Monday, June 1, in protest over the recent abduction of teachers and pupils in the state.
The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) issued the Sunday directive after terrorists abducted staff and students at Community Grammar School, Ahoro‑Esinele; L.A. Primary School, Ahoro‑Esinele; and Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota — all near Ogbomoso in Oriire Local Government Area — on May 15.
NUT said the action was prompted by the continued captivity of the victims. In a statement signed by its secretary, Mr Olukayode Salami, the union said uncertainty still surrounds the rescue and safe release of those taken and ordered all public primary and secondary school teachers to withdraw their services from June 1 until further notice.
The union urged members to comply, remain law‑abiding and stay safe at home. It reaffirmed solidarity with the abducted teachers, pupils and their families, saying the prolonged detention has created fear, discouraged parents from sending children to school, heightened tension in affected communities and raised concerns over safety. The strike, it said, aims to push government authorities to intensify efforts to free the captives; lawful engagements with authorities will continue.
The indefinite strike was announced the same day a Federal Government delegation, led by Mr Femi Gbajabiamila, visited Ahoro‑Esinele and Yawota. The team conveyed the President’s concern and announced approval to recruit 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State to boost security, a plan said to be in collaboration with the state government, according to presidential spokesman Mr Bayo Onanuga.
The delegation also said requests for a military base would be conveyed to the President and that Mr Tinubu had directed a specialized security unit with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify efforts. Addressing residents, Gbajabiamila said: “Mr President is deeply troubled by this incident. Whatever it takes, our children and teachers will be brought back home safely. He has issued all necessary directives and is providing every support required by our security agencies to achieve that objective.” He added: “Your pain and anxiety are understood. By the grace of God, your children will return safely to your arms.”
The team visited the palace of the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, and met Mrs Mary Oyedokun, wife of a deceased schoolteacher, and her two children, conveying the President’s condolences and assurances that the family will not be abandoned.
