Oriire Kidnapping: NUT Suspends Strike In Oyo Schools

The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has suspended its industrial action across public primary and secondary schools in Oyo State, directing members to resume work on Thursday, July 2, 2026.

Naija News understands that the decision followed renewed engagements with the Oyo State Government and assurances on improved security after the abduction of teachers and learners in Oriire Local Government Area.

In a statement jointly signed by the Oyo State Chairman of the union, Comrade Hassan Ajibola Fatai, and the State Secretary, Comrade Olukayode Salami, and issued on Wednesday (today), the NUT said the suspension was approved by its national leadership after reviewing the security situation and considering appeals from the government and other stakeholders.

Strike Suspended Over Security Assurances

The union said the strike, declared in protest against the kidnapping of teachers and students in Oriire, was suspended in the interest of teachers, learners and the public.

“The Nigeria Union of Teachers hereby directs all public primary and secondary school teachers in Oyo State to resume official duties on Thursday, July 2, 2026,” the statement read.

The NUT said the state government had assured it of sustained efforts to secure the safe release of the abducted victims and strengthen security around schools and vulnerable communities.

Govt Lists Commitments

According to the union, the government promised intensified rescue operations, the establishment of a well-equipped Joint Security Task Force to patrol vulnerable schools and access roads, continuous engagement with affected families, and psychosocial support and rehabilitation for rescued victims.

Other commitments include payment of gratuities and entitlements to families of deceased teachers, strengthening the Safe School Initiative, improving early warning systems, upgrading emergency response mechanisms, dismantling criminal hideouts, upgrading school infrastructure and deploying technology to improve school security.

The union also said the government pledged to address illegal mining and open grazing in forest reserves, improve community intelligence gathering, ensure speedy prosecution of suspects and enhance the welfare of security personnel.

The NUT commended its members for their discipline and solidarity during the strike, while appreciating the support of the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools and the Association of Primary School Head Teachers of Nigeria.

“We sincerely appreciate all our members, ANCOPSS, AOPSHON, and other stakeholders for their discipline, solidarity, and unwavering support during this period. Your cooperation has once again demonstrated our collective commitment to the welfare and safety of teachers and learners,” the statement added.

The union urged teachers to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities or security threats in their schools and communities.

“We urge all teachers to remain vigilant, law-abiding and promptly report any suspicious activities or security threats within their schools and communities to the relevant authorities. Together, we can build safer schools for our children and educators,” it stated.

The union reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare and safety of teachers, saying it would continue to engage the government until outstanding concerns were fully addressed.

“Our resolve to safeguard the lives, welfare and dignity of teachers remains unwavering. We shall continue constructive engagement with the government until every concern relating to the security of our members and learners is adequately addressed,” the statement said.