NUT directs Oyo teachers to begin indefinite strike over school abduction crisis
By Aboki Forex —
The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has ordered all public school teachers in Oyo State to withdraw their services indefinitely. The directive follows the abduction of teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15, 2026.
The Oyo State wing of the NUT issued the order on Sunday, May 31, 2026. The statement was signed by the State Secretary, Comrade Salami B. Olukayode, acting on instructions from the union's national leadership.
The union said teachers, headteachers, and principals in all public primary and secondary schools must stop work from Monday, June 1, 2026, until further notice.
“This is to officially convey to all Public Primary and Secondary School Teachers in Oyo State, the fresh directive of the National leadership of our union, NUT instructing us to withdraw our services from schools commencing from Tomorrow, Monday 1st June, 2026 till further notice for maximum compliance,” the statement read.
Why the strike is happening
The NUT said the continued detention of abducted teachers and pupils has created fear among education stakeholders and disrupted normal school activities. The union added that parents are now afraid to send their children to school, raising tension in the sector.
The strike is meant to pressure the government and security agencies to intensify rescue efforts. The union urged teachers to stay home and remain law-abiding while talks continue with authorities to secure the release of the victims.
What happened on May 15
Armed men attacked three schools in the Ahoro-Esinele, Esiele, and Yawota communities near Ogbomoso. The schools were Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School.
About 39 pupils and seven teachers were abducted, bringing the total to around 46 victims. Among them was a vice principal, Mrs. Rachael Folawe Alamu. One teacher, Michael Oyedokun, later died in captivity. Governor Seyi Makinde confirmed his death.
The abduction is one of the worst school kidnappings in the state. It has sparked fresh calls for better security in rural schools.
Federal response
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has deployed top security chiefs to Oyo State. He also approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards. A federal delegation visited affected communities on May 31, 2026.
Security reinforcement and intensified rescue operations were announced. The Presidency is considering a request for a military base in the area. Key officials including National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu and the Chief of Defence Staff took part in the visit.
The President also directed a specialised security unit to step up efforts to secure the release of all abducted pupils and teachers. Federal operations continue in the affected areas.