Oyo NUT Declares Indefinite Strike as Kidnapped Teachers, Pupils Remain in Captivity

The Oyo State chapter of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has directed all public primary and secondary school teachers across the state to embark on an indefinite strike beginning Monday, June 1, 2026, in protest against the continued abduction of teachers and pupils.

The union said the industrial action became unavoidable following the prolonged captivity of the victims and the urgent need to compel authorities to intensify efforts towards their safe rescue.

In a statement jointly signed by the Oyo State NUT Chairman, Hassan Fatai, and Secretary, Salami Olukayode, the union expressed deep concern over the worsening security situation and its impact on the education sector.

According to the statement, uncertainty surrounding the fate of the abducted teachers and pupils has created widespread fear, anxiety and emotional distress among teachers, students and parents across the state.

The union noted that the incident has also weakened public confidence in the school system, with many parents becoming increasingly hesitant to send their children to school amid growing insecurity concerns.

The NUT said the strike is intended to draw urgent attention to the plight of the victims and pressure relevant authorities to secure their immediate and unconditional release.

“The continued detention of our colleagues and pupils has created an atmosphere of fear and instability within the education sector. We can no longer continue normal academic activities while their safety remains uncertain,” the union stated.

It directed all teachers in public primary and secondary schools to comply fully with the strike action, remain peaceful and law-abiding, and prioritise their personal safety while staying away from classrooms until further notice.

The union also expressed solidarity with the affected families, assuring them that it would continue to engage government authorities, security agencies and other stakeholders until the victims are safely rescued.

Reaffirming its commitment to the welfare of teachers and learners, the NUT stressed that the protection of lives within school communities must remain a top priority.

The strike is expected to disrupt academic activities across public schools in Oyo State as pressure mounts on the government and security agencies to secure the release of the abducted teachers and pupils and restore confidence in the state’s education system.