Teachers in all public primary and secondary schools in Oyo State are protecting the seeming inability of government to provide security in educational institutions with an indefinite strike beginning Monday.
They have been asked to shun work by the Nigerian Union of Teachers, NUT, which in a statement made available to newsmen on Sunday in Ibadan, disclosed that the decision was necessitated by the continued captivity of abducted teachers and pupils in the state.
Some teachers and students of Community Grammar School, Ahoro-Esinele, L.A. Primary School Ahoro-Esinele and Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, near Ogbomoso, in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, were abducted on May 15 and are still in the custody of kidnappers.
The statement, signed by the secretary of the union, Mr Olukayode Salami, said that uncertainty still surrounded the rescue and safe release of the abducted victims although a high powered Federal delegation was present in Ogbomoso yesterday.
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The NUT said that the prolonged detention of the teachers and pupils had created fear and anxiety among its members, while also discouraging parents from sending their children to school.
The union said that the situation had heightened tension across affected communities and raised concerns over the safety of teachers and learners.
It said that the strike was intended to draw the attention of relevant government authorities to the urgent need to intensify efforts toward securing the release of the abductees.
The body directed all public primary and secondary school teachers in the state to withdraw their services from schools with effect from June 1 until further notice.
The NUT urged members to comply fully with the directive, remain law-abiding and stay safe in their respective homes throughout the period of the strike.
The union also reaffirmed its solidarity with the abducted teachers, pupils and their families, assuring them of its continued support.
It added that lawful engagements with relevant government authorities would continue until the victims regained their freedom.
The NUT reiterated its commitment to protecting the welfare, safety and security of teachers and learners across the country.
NAN
