Public primary and secondary school teachers in Oyo State have commenced an indefinite strike following the abduction of several teachers and pupils in Orire Local Government Area of the state.

The industrial action was declared by the Oyo State chapter of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), which described the worsening security situation as a serious threat to the safety and well-being of both educators and learners.

According to the union, the decision to withdraw services became necessary after repeated concerns about the security of teachers and students in vulnerable communities failed to receive adequate attention. The NUT expressed deep concern over the increasing incidents of kidnapping and insecurity affecting schools, warning that the trend could undermine teaching and learning across the state.

The union called on the state government and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the release of the abducted victims and strengthen security measures around schools, particularly in rural and high-risk areas.

Education stakeholders have also raised concerns about the impact of insecurity on school attendance, staff morale, and academic activities. Many parents are reportedly worried about the safety of their children, while teachers have continued to demand greater protection in the discharge of their duties.

The strike is expected to affect academic activities in public schools across Oyo State until the union’s demands are addressed and adequate assurances are provided regarding the safety of teachers and students.

Meanwhile, residents and community leaders have urged authorities to act swiftly to prevent further disruption to the education sector and restore confidence among parents, teachers, and learners.

The development highlights the growing challenge of insecurity facing schools in parts of Nigeria and has renewed calls for stronger measures to safeguard educational institutions nationwide.

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