ABDUCTION: Group declares shutdown of schools in Oyo, NUT backs action, to begin statewide rallies

ABDUCTION: Group declares shutdown of schools in Oyo, NUT backs action, to begin statewide rallies

Khalid ABRAHAM

As the abduction of teachers and students/pupils in the three schools of Community High School, Ahoro-Esinele, L.A. Basic School and Baptist Basic School Yawota in Oriire local government area enters the third week, a group, “Oyo State Teachers Action Group” has declared a shutdown of schools across the state.

The group in a flyer obtained by ogbomosoonsightonline.com also informed that statewide rallies would be held in major cities of the state.

The action meanwhile is backed by the Nigeria Union of Teachers NUT Oyo state wing.

In a press release signed by the secretary of the union, Comrade Salami Olukayode, NUT notes that though it wasn’t its idea but “Stand with the plan.”

It states, “Attention of the State Secretariat of the NUT, Oyo State Wing has been drawn to a publication on the above caption orchestrated by comr. Kolapo Oladapo Are, NUT, Ibadan South West Branch Chairman at one side and comr. Mustapha Abubakah, NUT Oyo West Branch Chairman on another side claiming to have been directed by the State Chairman of the Union and stating the position of the NUT to the supposedly planned ‘PEACEFUL SOLIDARITY WALK’ slated for Friday 29th May, 2026 at different locations across Oyo State, I wish to categorically state that it is the sole duty of the State Secretariat of the Union to convey the position of the union on issues of concerns or interests to members and the public.

“Although, the NUT has no link with the organization of this ‘Peaceful Solidarity Walk’ but it must be well expressed that the NUT is NOT by any means stand against any group of people or organization showing solidarity to pressurise the government and security operatives in ensuring an improved approach towards rescuing our abducted kids and colleagues from captivity.”

Teachers are directed to converge early Friday morning at Ogbomoso (Ogbomoso High School), Iseyin (IDGS), Oyo (Owode) and Ibadan (Item 7, Iwo road), for the solidarity walk.

The group demands “temporary closure of schools until those held in captivity regain freedom,” noting “Education can’t thrive in fear.”

Recall NUT has also requested schools in vulnerable zones be closed, a call however ignored by the state government. However the NUT has directed teachers in Oriire local government area to stay away from schools.