Korede Abdullah 
IBADAN, Nigeria – Public school teachers in Oyo State have commenced an indefinite strike following the continued captivity of abducted teachers and pupils seized by gunmen in Oriire Local Government Area.
The action follows a directive from the Nigeria Union of Teachers, which also ordered solidarity rallies across all state chapters nationwide to demand the victims’ release.
In a circular jointly signed by NUT National President, Audu Titus Amba, and Secretary-General, Clinton J. Ikpitibo, the union expressed outrage over the prolonged detention of its members and schoolchildren.
The union described the ordeal as “horrifying, terrific, inhumane and nightmarish.”
“We stand in solidarity with the victims and their families and remain committed to pursuing every lawful means to ensure their safe return,” the statement said.
NUT noted that despite previous appeals to government and security agencies, the abducted teachers and learners remain in captivity.
The union said it was particularly concerned that no clear information had emerged regarding the welfare or whereabouts of the victims.
Consequently, all teachers in public primary and secondary schools across Oyo State were directed to withdraw their services from June 1 until further notice.
The national body also instructed state chapters to organise solidarity rallies on June 2, with demonstrations expected to end at various government houses where union leaders will address the media.
In a separate notice, Oyo State NUT Secretary, Salami B. Olukayode, urged teachers to comply fully with the strike directive.
The union said the industrial action aims to pressure authorities to intensify efforts to secure the immediate and safe release of the abducted teachers and pupils.
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