The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has directed all primary and secondary school teachers in Oyo State to embark on an indefinite withdrawal of services beginning Monday, June 1, 2026, over the continued captivity of teachers and students abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area.
The union also instructed its state chapters across the country to organise solidarity rallies on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, to demand the unconditional release of the abducted teachers and learners.
The directive was contained in a circular jointly signed by the National President of the union, Audu Titus Amba, and the Secretary-General, Clinton J. Ikpitibo.
In the circular, the union expressed deep concern over what it described as the horrifying, inhumane and traumatic conditions being endured by the victims since their abduction on May 15, 2026.
The NUT lamented that despite repeated appeals to government authorities and security agencies to secure the release of the teachers and students, they remain in captivity, while reports emerging from their captors continue to heighten anxiety among teachers, parents and the general public.
According to the union, it is particularly disturbed by reports indicating that some victims have been killed, as well as emotional appeals allegedly made by an abducted school principal and a teacher, who reportedly called on the Federal Government, the Oyo State Government, the NUT, the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools and well-meaning Nigerians to intervene and facilitate their release.
The union stated that the prolonged captivity of the teachers and students, coupled with the absence of any clear indication of their imminent rescue, informed its decision to direct teachers in Oyo State to suspend academic activities until the victims regain their freedom.
“The National Leadership has directed all Primary and Secondary School teachers in Oyo State to withdraw their services from Monday, 1st June, 2026, until the abducted teachers and students are safely released,” the statement said.
As part of efforts to draw national attention to the plight of the victims, the NUT directed all its state wings nationwide to stage solidarity rallies on June 2.
The rallies, according to the union, will terminate at various Government Houses across the federation, where state leaders of the union are expected to address the media on the urgent need for safer and more secure learning environments.
The union maintained that schools, teachers and learners must not continue to be targets of criminal attacks, stressing that meaningful education can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace and security.
While reaffirming its solidarity with the abducted victims and their families, the NUT pledged to continue exploring all lawful means to ensure their safe rescue and reunion with their loved ones.
The statement concluded with a renewed appeal to the Federal Government, the Oyo State Government and security agencies to intensify efforts toward the immediate and unconditional release of all abducted teachers and students.
