The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has commenced an indefinite strike in Oyo state, while President Bola Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards as part of renewed efforts to rescue abducted pupils and teachers in the state.
The strike, which takes effect from today, June 1, 2026, follows the continued captivity of schoolchildren and teachers abducted on May 15 from communities in Oriire Local Government Area.
In a circular issued by the union’s national leadership, the NUT directed all public primary and secondary school teachers in Oyo State to withdraw their services indefinitely until the abducted victims are safely released. The union also announced plans for nationwide solidarity rallies in support of the affected families.
The decision was taken amid growing frustration over the delayed rescue of the victims, some of whom have reportedly been killed, while others continue to endure harsh conditions in captivity.
Meanwhile, the federal government has intensified its response to the crisis. According to a statement by Bayo Onanuga, the special adviser to the president on information and strategy, president Tinubu has approved the immediate recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo state, in collaboration with the state government.
The move is part of broader security interventions aimed at improving surveillance in forested areas believed to be used as hideouts by abductors.
A high-level federal delegation, led by Femi Gbajabiamila, the president’s chief of staff alongside Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the national security adviser, the inspector-general of police, and the chief of defence staff, visited affected communities on Sunday to reassure residents of ongoing rescue efforts.
The delegation reiterated the government’s commitment to securing the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers, assuring that operations would be intelligence-driven and carefully coordinated.
Residents and community leaders, however, continue to express concern over insecurity in the area, calling for the establishment of a permanent military base and improved communication infrastructure to support security operations.
The abductions, which occurred in three schools in Esiele and Yawota communities, have sparked widespread outrage across the state, with religious groups, civil society organisations, and labour unions demanding urgent and decisive action.
