Teachers in public schools across Oyo State have commenced an indefinite strike following the continued captivity of teachers and pupils abducted by gunmen in Oriire Local Government Area.
The industrial action, directed by the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), took effect on Monday and affects all public primary and secondary schools in the state. The union said the decision was prompted by growing concerns over the safety of the victims, who were kidnapped during attacks on schools in the Oriire area.
In a circular issued by the Oyo State chapter of the NUT, the union instructed members to stay away from classrooms until further notice, citing the need to pressure authorities into securing the immediate release of the abducted teachers and pupils.
According to the union, the prolonged detention of the victims has created widespread anxiety among educators, students, and parents, disrupting confidence in the safety of the school environment.
The circular emphasized that teachers should remain at home and comply fully with the directive while ongoing efforts to rescue the victims continue.
“The union and teachers across the country remain in solidarity with the victims and their families as lawful engagements with the government continue toward ensuring their safe return,” the statement read.
The abductions occurred when armed assailants attacked schools in the Esiele and Yawota communities of Oriire Local Government Area, sparking concern within the education sector and renewed calls for enhanced security around schools.
Meanwhile, government authorities have intensified efforts to secure the release of the captives. The Federal Government recently announced plans to strengthen security in the affected area through the recruitment of forest guards and the deployment of specialized rescue teams.
The NUT maintained that the strike would remain in effect until further directives are issued, insisting that the safety of teachers and students must remain a top priority.
