KEY POINTS

• The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) in Oyo State has ordered an indefinite strike over the continued kidnapping of teachers and pupils in the state.
• The union says the strike is to pressure authorities into securing the immediate and safe release of the abducted victims.
• Schools across the state are expected to shut down as teachers comply with the directive, deepening concerns over education disruption.

The Nigeria Union of Teachers, NUT, in Oyo State has directed all public primary and secondary school teachers to begin an indefinite strike effective Monday, June 1, 2026, following the unresolved abduction of teachers and pupils in the state.

The decision was announced in a statement jointly signed by the NUT Oyo State Wing Chairman, Hassan Fatai, and Secretary, Salami Olukayode.

According to the union, the industrial action is aimed at compelling urgent government intervention to ensure the safe rescue of those still held by abductors.

The union explained that the continued captivity of teachers and schoolchildren has created widespread fear, anxiety, and uncertainty within the education sector.

It noted that the situation has severely disrupted academic activities and weakened public confidence in the safety of schools across Oyo State.

Parents, the NUT added, are increasingly hesitant to send their children to school due to rising insecurity and repeated attacks on educational institutions.

Pressure on Government for Urgent Action

The NUT stated that the strike was a direct response to what it described as slow progress in securing the release of abducted victims.

It stressed that the action is intended to draw the attention of authorities to the urgent need for intensified rescue operations and stronger protection for schools and communities.

The union urged teachers to comply fully with the directive, remain law-abiding, and prioritize their safety while staying away from classrooms during the strike period.

The teachers’ union expressed solidarity with the abducted victims and their families, assuring them that efforts would continue to push for their safe return.

It also said it would maintain engagement with relevant government and security agencies until the abducted teachers and pupils are rescued.

The NUT reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare and security of educators and learners, describing the protection of school environments as a national priority.