Korede Abdullah 
IBADAN, Nigeria – The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) Oyo has suspended its withdrawal of services and directed public primary and secondary school teachers across the state to resume work following discussions with the Oyo State Government over the abduction of teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area.
The directive, contained in a circular on Wednesday, follows intervention by the union’s national leadership after reviewing the security situation and receiving assurances from the state government on ongoing rescue efforts and improved security for schools.
The circular, jointly signed by State Chairman Hassan A. Fatai, State Secretary Salami B. Olukayode and State Treasurer Titilolu Ibukunolu S., says teachers should return to their duty posts from Thursday, 2 July 2026.
“The National Leadership of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), having reviewed the prevailing situation and following constructive engagements with the Oyo State Government and public appeal by the government and other critical stakeholders, has directed the suspension of the withdrawal of services earlier embarked upon on account of the abduction of teachers and learners in Oriire Local Government of the State,” the circular states.
“All teachers in public primary and secondary schools across Oyo State are hereby directed to resume their official duties and lawfully discharge their responsibilities as from Thursday 2nd July 2026.”
“Continuous efforts are being made to ensure the safe return of our abducted colleagues and learners, as well as strengthen security measures around our schools and communities.”
The industrial action follows a coordinated attack on 15 May, when heavily armed gunmen invaded three schools in the Yawota and Ahoro-Esinle communities of Oriire Local Government Area.
The attackers storm classrooms during school hours and abduct dozens of pupils, teachers and a toddler before fleeing into nearby forests, triggering widespread concern over the safety of schools in Oyo State.
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Oluwatobi Adu 
Otamere Gladness 
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 