Public primary and secondary schools across Oyo State experienced a significant disruption in academic activities on Monday as teachers complied with the Nigeria Union of Teachers’ (NUT) directive to commence an indefinite strike over the continued abduction of teachers and pupils in the state.
Many schools were largely deserted, with classrooms remaining locked and teaching activities suspended as educators stayed away from work in line with the union’s instruction.
At Community High School, Ogungbade in Ibadan, academic activities came to a standstill as teachers withdrew their services, leaving students without lessons for the day.
The industrial action also affected the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), with reports indicating that some examination supervisors were left waiting amid uncertainty surrounding the strike and its impact on scheduled assessments.
Several students who arrived at school on Monday were later seen returning home after discovering that classes would not hold.
The NUT had on Sunday directed all public primary and secondary school teachers in Oyo State to begin an indefinite strike from June 1, 2026, until further notice.
According to the union, the action became necessary due to the continued captivity of teachers and pupils abducted on May 15 from Community Grammar School, Ahoro-Esiele, L.A. Primary School, Ahoro-Esiele, and Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, all located in Oriire Local Government Area.
In a statement signed by the union’s Secretary, Olukayode Salami, the NUT expressed concern over the lack of progress in securing the release of the victims.
The union noted that the prolonged captivity of the abducted teachers and pupils has created widespread anxiety among education workers and raised serious concerns about safety within the school system.
It further stated that the incident has discouraged many parents from sending their children to school, underscoring the urgent need for authorities to intensify efforts to secure the safe and unconditional release of the victims.
The NUT reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare and security of teachers and learners, insisting that the strike would continue until meaningful steps are taken to address the situation.