Kidnapping: NUT orders Oyo teachers to begin strike

The Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT) has directed all public primary and secondary school teachers in Oyo State to go on indefinite strike from Monday.

In a statement issued on Sunday in Ibadan by its Secretary, Olukayode Salami, the NUT said the decision was necessary because of the ongoing kidnapping of teachers and students in the state.

Gunmen on May 15 kidnapped some teachers and students of Community Grammar School, Ahoro-Esinele, LA Primary School Ahoro-Esinele and Baptist Primary and Nursery School, Yawota, near Ogbomoso, in Oriire Local Government Area of ​​Oyo State.

The union lamented the uncertainty surrounding the rescue and safe release of abductees.

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The NUT said the prolonged detention of teachers and students had raised fear and anxiety among its members, while making parents reluctant to send their children to school.

The union said the situation had increased tensions in affected communities and raised concerns over the safety of teachers and students.

It said that the strike was intended to draw the attention of the relevant government authorities to the urgent need to intensify efforts to secure the release of the abductees.

The agency directed all public elementary and secondary school teachers in the state to withdraw their services from schools with effect from June 1 until further notice.

The NUT urges its members to fully comply with the directive, remain law-abiding and remain safe in their homes during the strike period.

The union also reiterated its solidarity with the kidnapped teachers, students and their families.