Oyo State Schools Strike Over Kidnapping of Pupils, Teachers

Public primary and secondary schools across Oyo State commenced an indefinite strike on June 1, 2023, in compliance with a directive from the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT). This action was prompted by the abduction of teachers and pupils during an attack on May 15, 2023, at three schools in Oriire Local Government Area.

The armed men attacked the Commun Grammar School, Ahoru Esinel Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and Yawota near Ogbomoso, resulting in the abduction of individuals and the death of two people. Teachers were instructed not to report for duty, and schools including Anglican Junior Secondary School, St. Patrick Secondary School, and others observed full compliance with the strike.

Students arriving at schools were turned back and asked to return home. The strike affects various regions within the state, including Ogbomoso, Iseyin, Saki, Eruwa, and Ibarapa, as teachers express solidarity with the victims of the abductions.