Fear Grips Oyo Communities as Teachers Down Tools Over Unresolved School Abductio

All public primary and secondary school teachers in Oyo State have commenced an indefinite strike following the abduction of teachers and pupils near Ogbomoso.

The industrial action, which began on June 1, 2026, was initiated by the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) after a directive issued on Sunday night.
The abduction occurred on May 15 when gunmen attacked three schools in Oriire Local Government Area: Community Grammar School, Ahoro-Esinle; L.A. Primary School, Ahoro-Esinle; and Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota.
During the attack, several teachers and students were kidnapped. Two weeks after the incident, the NUT said uncertainty still surrounds their rescue and safe release.
In a statement, the union noted that the prolonged captivity of the victims has created widespread fear and anxiety among teachers, while also discouraging parents from sending their children to school.
According to the union, the situation has heightened tension in the affected communities and raised serious concerns about the safety of teachers and learners.
The NUT consequently directed all public school teachers across the state to withdraw their services until further notice. Members were also advised to remain law-abiding and stay at home for their own safety.
The union explained that the strike is intended to compel government authorities to intensify efforts toward securing the release of the abducted teachers and pupils.
It further reaffirmed its solidarity with the victims and their families during the difficult period.
With schools now closed indefinitely, thousands of pupils across Oyo State have been forced out of classrooms. The union maintained that lawful engagement with the government would continue until the abducted victims regain their freedom.
The development comes amid an ongoing clash between the APC and Governor Seyi Makinde over the security situation in Oyo State.