All private schools across Oyo State were shut down on Friday following a directive issued by the Coalition of Non-State Schools in Oyo State (CONSSOS) in protest against the abduction of pupils and teachers in Ogbomoso.
The statewide closure was announced in a communique dated June 2, 2026, as part of efforts to demand the safe release of the victims and draw attention to growing security concerns within the education sector.
According to the coalition, all private educational institutions in the state were instructed to suspend academic activities for the day in solidarity with the abducted pupils and teachers.
CONSSOS also declared the day a special prayer day, directing schools to organize dedicated prayer sessions for divine intervention, protection, peace, and improved security across schools, communities, and the nation at large.
The coalition urged parents, guardians, school proprietors, and teachers to actively participate in the prayer activities, stressing the need for collective action in addressing the security challenges facing the state.
The action follows recent cases of kidnapping reported in the Yawota and Esiele communities of Ogbomoso, which have heightened concerns among education stakeholders and residents.
Condemning the incidents, CONSSOS called on security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the release of the victims and strengthen measures to protect lives and property across Oyo State.
The closure by private schools comes amid increasing tension over insecurity in the state. Public school teachers are also currently observing an indefinite strike, citing similar security concerns and demanding improved safety measures for educators and students.
Education stakeholders have expressed hope that the coordinated actions by both private and public education sectors will prompt urgent intervention by relevant authorities to address the worsening security situation.
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