Public primary and secondary school teachers across Oyo State on Monday commenced an indefinite strike following a directive by the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT) over the continued captivity of abducted teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area.
The strike action, announced by the union on Sunday night, led to the closure of several public schools across the state, with classrooms remaining empty as teachers stayed away from work.
A visit to some public schools in Ibadan showed that students who arrived early for classes were forced to return home, while others gathered in groups discussing the ongoing industrial action.
The NUT said the strike was aimed at pressing authorities to secure the immediate rescue and release of the abducted teachers and pupils allegedly kidnapped by terrorists in Oriire Local Government Area.
In a statement jointly signed by the Oyo State NUT Chairman, Hassan Fatai, and the State Secretary, Salami Olukayode, the union explained that the decision to embark on the indefinite strike was prompted by the prolonged detention of the victims and the uncertainty surrounding efforts to secure their freedom.
According to the union, the continued captivity of the teachers and pupils has heightened fear and anxiety among education workers across the state. It added that the situation has also discouraged many parents from sending their children to school due to concerns about safety.
The NUT maintained that the strike would continue until concrete steps are taken to ensure the safe rescue and release of the abducted victims.
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