The Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT) has suspended the indefinite strike by public primary and secondary school teachers in Oyo State, directing members to return to work from Thursday, July 2, following a directive from its national leadership. The decision was announced in a statement issued on Wednesday, July 1, and jointly signed by the Chairman of the Oyo State chapter of the NUT, Hassan Fatai, and the union’s Secretary, Olukayode Salami.
Strike Suspension After Security Review
According to the union, the suspension followed a review of the prevailing security situation and constructive engagements with the Oyo State Government, alongside appeals from the government and other key stakeholders. The strike was declared in response to the abduction of teachers and learners in Oriire Local Government Area of the state. The union said its national leadership resolved to suspend the industrial action after receiving assurances from the state government that efforts were being intensified to secure the safe return of the abducted victims.
“As from Thursday, 2nd July, 2026, all teachers in public primary and secondary schools across Oyo State are hereby directed to resume their official duties and lawfully discharge their responsibilities,” the statement said.
Government Commitments to School Security
The government also pledged to establish a well-equipped Joint Security Task Force to conduct regular patrols around vulnerable schools and access routes. Other commitments include sustained engagement with the families of the abducted victims, provision of psychosocial support and rehabilitation for rescued teachers and learners, and payment of gratuities and other entitlements to the families of deceased teachers.
The union said the government further promised to strengthen security training and emergency response systems, sustain public awareness campaigns on safe school initiatives and early warning mechanisms, improve school infrastructure, and address ungoverned spaces used by criminal elements.
Root Causes of Insecurity Addressed
It added that the state had undertaken to tackle the root causes of insecurity, including illegal mining activities and open grazing encroachment into forest reserves, while enhancing community intelligence, collaboration with security agencies, deployment of technology for school security, and ensuring swift prosecution of criminal elements alongside improved welfare for security personnel.
The NUT commended its members for their discipline, solidarity and compliance throughout the strike, describing their support as a demonstration of unity in the pursuit of the welfare and safety of teachers and learners.
Union Urges Vigilance Upon Resumption
The union urged teachers to remain vigilant upon resumption, cooperate with school authorities and security agencies, and promptly report any security threats within their communities. It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the welfare and security of its members, stating that it would continue engaging with the state government until all outstanding concerns are fully addressed.
