The Coalition of Non-State Schools in Oyo State (CONSSOS) has announced it will not join strikes or protests over the recent abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area. Instead, the coalition has directed all private schools across the state to close on Friday, 5 June, for a special prayer session seeking the safe return of the victims and improved security.
Communique Details
In a communique issued after its meeting on Tuesday, signed by acting chairman Jamiu Muhammed and acting secretary Mayowa Solademi, the coalition stated that the one-day closure would allow schools, parents, teachers, and students to participate in prayers. The communique read: 'A special Prayer Session shall be organised by all private schools across the state on the same day, seeking divine intervention, protection, peace, and security for our communities, schools, and the nation at large.'
Background of the Abduction
The abduction occurred on 15 May, when about 39 pupils and seven teachers were taken from Yawota and Ahoro-Esiele in Oriire Local Government Area. The incident sparked widespread outrage and renewed concerns over school safety in Oyo State.
Contrast with NUT
The coalition's decision contrasts with the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) in Oyo State, which began an indefinite strike on 1 June to demand the prompt rescue of the abducted victims. The NUT national leadership also directed state chapters to stage solidarity protests. Protests have been held by NUT members and civil society organizations in several South-west states and Abuja.
Why Strike and Protest Are Not Options
Speaking with our correspondent via phone on Wednesday, Mr Muhammed explained that the coalition carefully considered calls for strike and protest but concluded neither would contribute meaningfully to resolving the crisis. 'At the coalition meeting, we asked ourselves what exactly we hope to achieve through protest and school closure, and would these actions resolve the problem? I can tell you categorically they will not; instead, they will add to the problem,' he said.
He warned that shutting schools indefinitely could inadvertently advance the objectives of criminal groups seeking to disrupt education. 'If these terrorists who attacked schools want children out of classrooms, then closing schools will mean we are strengthening their objectives,' he added.
Mr Muhammed also noted that keeping children away from school could create additional social risks for families and communities. Many parents have expressed concerns about leaving children unsupervised at home, especially when schools provide structure, learning, and supervision. 'Most parents want schools open. Their fear is insecurity, but they also do not want their children idle at home,' he said.
Engagement with Authorities
The acting chairman disclosed that the coalition has engaged education authorities and submitted actionable measures on strengthening school security across the state. These recommendations include enhanced school security strategies, collaboration between schools and security agencies, and involvement of teachers' organization bodies.
As efforts continue to secure the victims' release, the differing responses from public and private school bodies underscore the broader debate over how best to address insecurity and pressure both federal and state governments to intensify rescue efforts while minimizing disruptions to education.
