On May 31, 2026, the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) directed all public primary and secondary school teachers in Oyo State to withdraw their services indefinitely starting Monday, June 1, citing growing concerns over the safety of both teachers and students.

As the directive took effect, tension escalated in Ibadan, where civil society organisations and concerned residents took to the streets in protest over the recent abduction of pupils and teachers in parts of the state.
The protest followed the visit of the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, to the Orire Community, where the incident has left residents gripped by fear, anger, and deep concern.
Marching through major parts of Ibadan, protesters carried placards with inscriptions such as “Every Life Matters, Stop the Kidnappers,” “47 Abducted, Scared and Alone,” and “Stand Up! Speak Out!” while urging the government and security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the victims and address the worsening insecurity affecting schools and communities across the state.
The incident has sparked widespread concern among parents, educators, and stakeholders, with many questioning the safety of schools across the state and calling for urgent and decisive intervention.
The residents are urging the state government and security agencies to act swiftly to rescue the abducted victims, strengthen security across vulnerable communities, and restore confidence in the safety of schools.
