Growing concerns are mounting among parents across Oyo State as thousands of pupils remain out of school following the indefinite strike declared by the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) over the continued abduction of teachers and schoolchildren in the state.
The industrial action, which has paralysed activities in public primary and secondary schools, was triggered by the prolonged captivity of teachers and pupils kidnapped from schools in Oriire Local Government Area. The union said the strike became necessary to pressure authorities into intensifying efforts to secure the victims’ release.
With classrooms deserted and academic activities suspended, many parents have expressed fears over the impact of the disruption on their children’s education. The situation has also heightened anxiety about school safety, with some families questioning whether adequate measures are in place to protect learners and teachers from future attacks.
Reports from several parts of the state indicate widespread compliance with the strike directive, forcing students who arrived at school premises to return home. Only candidates participating in the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and officials involved in the examination process were exempted from the action.
The teachers’ union insists that normal academic activities cannot continue in an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty, maintaining that the strike will remain in force until meaningful progress is made in rescuing the abducted teachers and pupils.
