The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has directed all primary and secondary school teachers in Oyo State to begin an indefinite strike following the continued captivity of teachers and pupils abducted by gunmen in Oriire Local Government Area.

The strike, which takes effect from Monday, June 1, 2026, is expected to shut down public schools across the state until all the victims regain their freedom.

NUT Takes Drastic Action

In a statement jointly signed by NUT National President, Comrade Audu Titus Amba, and Secretary General, Dr. Clinton J. Ikpitibo, the union said the decision became necessary due to the prolonged captivity of the victims.

The union expressed concern that despite several appeals to government authorities and security agencies, there has been no significant breakthrough in securing the release of the abducted teachers and students.

According to the NUT, schools, teachers and pupils should never become easy targets for criminal elements.

Nationwide Solidarity Protests Planned

Beyond the strike action in Oyo State, the union also directed all its state chapters across Nigeria to organise solidarity rallies on Tuesday, June 2.

The protests are expected to take place in different states, with participants marching to Government Houses to demand urgent intervention and the safe return of the victims.

The union said the demonstrations are intended to draw national attention to the worsening security situation affecting schools and educational institutions.

Fear Grows Over Victims’ Welfare

The NUT disclosed that anxiety has continued to grow following reports suggesting that some of the abducted victims may have died in captivity.

The union also referenced videos reportedly released by the kidnappers, showing an abducted school principal and teacher appealing to the Federal Government, Oyo State Government, the NUT and Nigerians for urgent intervention.

The emotional footage has sparked widespread concern among teachers, parents and education stakeholders.

Education Cannot Thrive Under Fear

The union maintained that the trauma suffered by the victims, their families and the wider education community made the strike unavoidable.

It called on the Federal Government, Oyo State Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the unconditional release of all those still being held captive.

The NUT stressed that meaningful education cannot take place in an atmosphere of fear and insecurity, vowing to sustain lawful pressure until the abducted teachers and pupils are freed.