Schools on strike as hundreds in Ibadan protest abduction of teachers, pupils in Oriire
Civil society organisations on Monday took to the streets of Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, to protest the abduction of teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
The demonstrators marched through major parts of the city carrying placards with messages including “Every Life Matters, Stop the Kidnappers,” “47 Abducted, Scared and Alone,” and “Stand Up! Speak Out,” while calling on authorities to secure the release of the victims.
The protest comes days after teachers in Ogbomoso staged a demonstration over the incident, demanding urgent government intervention. The abduction, which also claimed the life of a teacher, has sparked widespread concern among residents, education stakeholders, and labour groups across the state.
Last Monday, teachers in Ogbomoso suspended academic activities and marched peacefully to the office of the Oyo State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) to express their grievances and press for immediate action.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has directed all public primary and secondary school teachers in Oyo State to embark on an indefinite strike beginning June 1, 2026.
The union said the action was prompted by the continued captivity of the abducted teachers and pupils, whose rescue remains uncertain.
In a statement signed by the Oyo State NUT Chairman, Hassan Fatai, the union said the prolonged detention of the victims has created fear among teachers, discouraged school attendance, and heightened anxiety within affected communities.
According to the union, the industrial action is intended to draw the attention of government authorities to the urgent need for intensified efforts to secure the safe release of the abductees.
The NUT urged its members to comply fully with the directive, remain peaceful, and stay at home throughout the duration of the strike.
The union also reiterated its support for the abducted teachers, pupils, and their families, pledging to continue lawful engagement with relevant authorities until the victims regain their freedom.
