Oyo NUT Ends Strike Following Government Appeal as Rescue Efforts Intensify
Public school teachers across Oyo State have resumed classes after the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) suspended its statewide strike, following fresh assurances from the state government on efforts to rescue abducted teachers and learners and improve school security.
The strike was declared after more than 40 teachers and pupils were abducted in Oriire Local Government Area early last month, raising widespread concerns about the safety of children in and around schools. More than a month later, the affected persons remain in captivity, leaving families anxiously awaiting their safe return.
According to the union, the decision to suspend the industrial action followed directives from its national leadership after reviewing the security situation and considering commitments made by the Oyo State Government.
The government pledged to intensify rescue operations, establish a Joint Security Task Force to patrol vulnerable schools and access roads, strengthen the Safe School Initiative, and improve emergency response systems. Authorities also promised continued engagement with affected families, psychosocial support for rescued children and teachers, and stronger measures to prevent future attacks on schools.
While welcoming the government’s commitments, the NUT urged teachers to remain vigilant and promptly report any security concerns within their schools and communities.
For child rights advocates, however, the reopening of schools does not lessen the urgency of securing the release of the abducted learners. They stress that every child has the right to learn in a safe and secure environment free from fear and violence.
As classrooms reopen across Oyo State, families continue to hope that the missing children and teachers will soon return home safely and receive the care and support needed to recover from their ordeal.
