The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has suspended the industrial action embarked upon by public primary and secondary school teachers in Oyo State over the abduction of teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area, directing members to resume work on Thursday, July 2, 2026.

 

The decision followed renewed engagements with the Oyo State Government and assurances on measures to strengthen security in schools and secure the release of the abducted victims.

 

In a statement jointly signed on Wednesday by the Oyo State Chairman of the union, Hassan Ajibola Fatai, and the Secretary, Olukayode Salami, the NUT said the suspension was in compliance with a directive from its national leadership after reviewing the security situation and considering appeals by the state government and other stakeholders.

 

The union said the decision was taken in the overall interest of teachers, pupils and the public, following assurances that sustained efforts were underway to secure the release of the abducted teachers and learners and improve security around schools and adjoining communities.

 

According to the statement, the state government pledged to intensify rescue efforts for the victims, establish a well-equipped Joint Security Task Force to patrol vulnerable schools and access routes, maintain regular engagement with affected families, provide psychosocial support and rehabilitation for rescued victims, and pay gratuities and other entitlements to the families of deceased teachers.

 

The government also promised to strengthen the Safe School Initiative through public sensitisation and early warning systems, improve emergency response mechanisms, dismantle criminal hideouts, upgrade school infrastructure, address illegal mining and open grazing in forest reserves, enhance community intelligence gathering, ensure speedy prosecution of criminal suspects, improve the welfare of security personnel and deploy technology to enhance security in schools.

 

The union lauded its members for their discipline and solidarity during the strike, as well as the support of the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS) and the Association of Primary School Head Teachers of Nigeria (AOPSHON), describing their cooperation as instrumental to the pursuit of improved welfare and security for teachers and learners.

 

While directing teachers to return to their duty posts on Thursday, the union urged members to remain vigilant, comply with the law, and promptly report any security threats in their schools and communities to the appropriate authorities.