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The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has directed all public primary and secondary school teachers in Oyo State to withdraw their services from Monday, June 1, in protest against the continued abduction of teachers and students in Oriire Local Government Area.
The decision follows the May 15, 2026 attack on Baptist Nursery and Primary School (Yawota), Community Grammar School, and L.A. Primary School (Esiele), where gunmen abducted pupils, students, and teachers.
Victims include 39 students and seven teachers, among them Mrs Rachael Alamu, principal of Community High School, Esinele. Two teachers were also killed during the incident.
The directive, issued by the union’s leadership, is aimed at pressing for urgent government intervention to secure the safe release of the victims, whose whereabouts remain unknown.
In a statement signed by Oyo State NUT Chairman, Hassan Fatai, and Secretary, Salami Olukayode, the union said the prolonged captivity of the abductees had created widespread fear and anxiety among teachers and weakened confidence in the education system.
Meanwhile, the Oyo state Wing of the NUT has confirmed full compliance with the directive.
In a circular dated May 31, 2026, and signed by State Secretary, Salami Olukayode, the union formally conveyed the withdrawal of services to all teachers in public schools across the state.
The Oyo NUT said the continued detention of teachers and learners had “created fear, anxiety, and disruption within the education sector, while also eroding public confidence in school safety.”
The union noted that the situation has also discouraged parents from sending their children to school, while increasing tension in affected communities.
It said the strike action is intended to compel authorities to intensify efforts towards the immediate and unconditional release of the abducted teachers and pupils.
The NUT urged all teachers in the state to fully comply with the directive, remain law-abiding, and ensure their safety throughout the period of the industrial action.
It also expressed solidarity with the victims and their families, assuring that it would continue engaging relevant authorities until the abductees are safely rescued.
The union reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare and security of teachers and learners, stressing that the protection of school communities remains a top priority nationwide.
