Insecurity: Oyo Teachers Announce Indefinite Strike Over Abducted Colleagues, Pupils

Following the continued captivity of their abducted colleagues and learners, the Oyo State Wing of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has directed all public primary and secondary school teachers in the state to embark on an indefinite strike starting Monday, June 1, 2026.

The directive was contained in a press statement made available to gistlife on Sunday. The circular, dated May 31, 2026, and signed by the State Secretary, Comrade Salami B. Olukayode, ordered a total withdrawal of services across all public schools. This action is a strict enforcement of a fresh mandate from the national leadership of the union, urging all elected state officers, branch trustees, headteachers, principals, and classroom teachers to ensure maximum compliance until further notice.

Comrade Olukayode explained that the drastic measure was necessitated by the prolonged detention of the victims by their captors. He lamented that the absence of any clear signs of a timely rescue or safe release has generated widespread fear and a sense of hopelessness among educators. Furthermore, the union noted that the unfortunate security situation has triggered panic and tension across local communities, severely discouraging parents from sending their children to school.

The NUT clarified that the withdrawal of service is a strategic move to compel the government to intensify its efforts and deploy more robust strategies to secure the safe and immediate return of the abductees without further delay.

While assuring the affected families of the union’s unwavering solidarity, the state secretary appealed to all teachers to remain law-abiding and stay safe in their respective homes. He added that the union and the broader teaching community across the country will continue lawful engagements with the government to ensure the crisis is resolved and the abductees are safely reunited with their families.