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The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has suspended its indefinite strike in Oyo State and directed all public primary and secondary school teachers to resume work on Thursday following developments in efforts to address the recent abduction of teachers and pupils in the state.
The union had embarked on the industrial action after gunmen abducted teachers and schoolchildren from schools in Oriire Local Government Area, citing concerns over the safety of its members and learners. The strike brought academic activities in public schools across the state to a halt as teachers stayed away from classrooms in protest.
According to the NUT, the decision to suspend the strike followed consultations with relevant authorities and renewed assurances from the Federal Government, the Oyo State Government, and security agencies that intensified efforts are underway to secure the safe release of the remaining abductees and strengthen security around schools.
The abduction, which occurred in May, sparked nationwide concern after dozens of pupils and teachers were kidnapped from schools in the Ahoro-Esiele and Yawota communities. The incident also claimed the life of one teacher, prompting widespread condemnation and calls for stronger protection of educational institutions.
During the crisis, President Bola Tinubu approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards for Oyo State and directed security agencies to intensify rescue operations. Governor Seyi Makinde also assured affected communities that every available resource would be deployed to secure the victims’ freedom and improve security across vulnerable areas.
With the suspension of the strike, teachers have been instructed to return to their duty posts on Thursday, allowing public schools across Oyo State to resume normal academic activities.
The union, however, reiterated that the safety and welfare of teachers and students remain a priority, urging governments at all levels to implement lasting security measures to prevent future attacks on schools and ensure that learning environments remain safe.
School abductions have remained a major security challenge in Nigeria in recent years, with attacks on educational institutions disrupting learning and raising concerns among parents, teachers, and education stakeholders. The Oyo incident has further renewed calls for improved school security and stronger measures to protect students and educators nationwide.
