The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has directed all public primary and secondary school teachers in Oyo State to withdraw their services indefinitely beginning Monday, June 1, 2026, over the continued captivity of teachers and students abducted in Oriire Local Government Area.
The directive follows the May 15 attack on Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community Grammar School, and L.A. Primary School, Esiele, where armed men abducted 39 students and seven teachers. Two teachers were reportedly killed during the incident.
Among those still in captivity is Mrs. Rachael Alamu, Principal of Community High School, Esiele.
Confirming the decision on Sunday, NUT National President, Audu Amba, said teachers across Oyo State have been instructed to remain at home until the abducted victims regain their freedom.
“We have directed all teachers in Oyo State to remain at home starting from Monday,” Amba stated.
In a circular issued by the union’s national leadership, the NUT said the withdrawal of services would continue until all abducted teachers and learners are safely released.
The union also announced nationwide solidarity rallies scheduled for Tuesday, June 2, across state capitals. The rallies are aimed at drawing attention to the growing insecurity in schools and demanding urgent government action to secure the release of the victims.
According to the NUT, repeated appeals to security agencies and government authorities have yet to produce results, leaving families and the education community in deep distress.
The union described the situation as a tragic reflection of the worsening security challenges facing schools and renewed its call for safer learning environments across the country.
Meanwhile, the Oyo State wing of the NUT has confirmed full compliance with the directive, urging teachers to stay at home while ongoing efforts continue to secure the release of the abductees.
The state chapter noted that the prolonged detention of teachers and students has created fear, anxiety, and disruption within the education sector while weakening public confidence in school safety.
However, the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS), Oyo State Chapter, has distanced itself from the planned protest rallies.
In a statement signed by its President, Fajobi Olukunle, the association said it would not participate in the demonstrations, arguing that insecurity issues should be addressed through dialogue and collaboration with relevant authorities rather than street protests.
NAPPS reaffirmed its commitment to the safety and welfare of pupils, students, teachers, and school owners, while urging its members to remain peaceful and focused on academic activities.
