The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has directed all public school teachers in Oyo State to stay home indefinitely starting Monday, June 1, 2026, over the abduction of seven teachers and 39 students from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15, 2026.
Background of the strike
Gunmen attacked Baptist Nursery and Primary School (Yawota), Community Grammar School, and L.A. Primary School (Esiele) on May 15, 2026. They abducted seven teachers, including Mrs. Rachael Alamu, principal of Community High School, Esinele, along with 39 students. Two teachers were killed during the attack.
The NUT national leadership, in a circular signed by National President Audu Amba and Secretary General Clinton Ikpitibo, said the total withdrawal of services will continue until all hostages are safely released.
Enforcement by Oyo NUT wing
The Oyo State wing of the NUT, led by Chairman Hassan Fatai and Secretary Salami Olukayode, immediately enforced the order. A circular signed by State Secretary Com. Salami B. Olukayode ordered an immediate and total withdrawal of service across all public primary and secondary schools in the state.
The local chapter explained that the prolonged detention of their colleagues and students has caused severe anxiety, fear, and tension across school communities. The union noted that security failure has disrupted the academic environment and left parents afraid to send their children to school.
Demands and actions
The strike aims to force federal and state governments, as well as security agencies, to intensify rescue efforts. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reportedly ordered the deployment of a special security team to track the kidnappers and secure the hostages.
In addition to the classroom boycott, the NUT has scheduled nationwide solidarity rallies for Tuesday, June 2, 2026. Teachers across all state capitals plan to march to government houses to present demands for better security around public schools.
The NUT urged all public school teachers in Oyo State to comply fully with the stay-at-home order, remain law-abiding, and prioritize their safety while negotiations and rescue operations continue.
