The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has suspended the industrial action embarked upon by public primary school teachers in Oyo State, directing its members to resume duties on Thursday following renewed discussions with the state government over security concerns.
The decision comes after the union received assurances from the Oyo State Government that additional security measures would be implemented to safeguard schools, teachers and pupils in the wake of the recent abduction of teachers and schoolchildren in Oriire Local Government Area.
In a statement announcing the suspension of the strike, the union said the decision was reached after extensive consultations with relevant stakeholders and commitments by the government to strengthen security around educational institutions across the state.
The strike had been declared in response to the abduction incident, which heightened fears among teachers and parents over the safety of schools, particularly in rural and vulnerable communities. The union insisted that the security and welfare of its members and pupils must remain a priority.
According to the NUT, the government’s intervention and renewed commitment to improving security created the basis for suspending the industrial action while efforts continue to address the concerns raised by the union.
The union, however, stressed that the suspension of the strike should not be interpreted as the end of its demands. It said it would continue to monitor the implementation of the government’s promises and maintain engagement with relevant authorities to ensure that agreed measures are fully carried out.
Teachers across public primary schools in the state have been instructed to return to their classrooms on Thursday and resume academic activities without delay.
The Oyo State Government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property, assuring residents that security agencies have intensified efforts to prevent further attacks on schools and other public institutions.
Government officials said additional security strategies are being implemented to strengthen surveillance around schools, improve emergency response mechanisms and enhance collaboration with local communities to detect and prevent criminal activities.
The abduction in Oriire Local Government Area had sparked widespread concern among education stakeholders and residents, prompting renewed calls for stronger security around schools across the state.
Parents and guardians have welcomed the suspension of the strike, expressing hope that the government’s assurances will translate into concrete action capable of restoring confidence in the safety of public schools.
Education stakeholders have also urged the state government to sustain its engagement with teachers’ unions and security agencies, noting that a safe learning environment is essential for uninterrupted academic activities and improved educational outcomes.
With classrooms set to reopen, attention will now shift to the implementation of the promised security measures as both the government and the NUT seek to ensure that teachers and pupils can carry out teaching and learning activities in a secure environment.
