Tinubu Deploys 1,000 Forest Guards as NUT Oyo State Begins Strike Over Abductions

Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has commenced an indefinite strike across Oyo State following the continued captivity of pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area.

The strike, which began on Monday, June 1, 2026, comes 16 days after armed men attacked three schools in the Esiele and Yawota communities of Oriire LGA, abducting dozens of pupils and teachers.

In response to the worsening situation, President Tinubu directed security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the victims and approved the immediate recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in collaboration with the Oyo State Government.

According to a statement issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, a high-powered Federal Government delegation visited the affected communities on Sunday to deliver the President’s directives and reassure residents of the government’s commitment to securing the safe release of the captives.

The delegation was led by the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, and included the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu; Defence Minister, General Christopher Musa (retd); and Special Adviser on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare.

Addressing community leaders and residents, Gbajabiamila said President Tinubu was deeply concerned about the incident and had ordered all relevant security agencies to deploy every available resource toward rescuing the victims.

“Mr President is deeply troubled by this incident. Whatever it takes, our children and teachers will be brought back home safely,” he said.

He assured residents that the rescue operation would be intelligence-driven and carefully coordinated to ensure the safe return of the abductees.

The delegation also informed community leaders that their request for the establishment of a military base in the area had been forwarded to the President for consideration.

During the visit, government officials paid condolence visits to the family of Michael Oyedokun, a mathematics teacher who was reportedly beheaded during the attack, and pledged support for his widow and children.

The abduction occurred on May 15, 2026, when gunmen attacked Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School in Oriire LGA. Among those reportedly held captive are a school principal and a two-year-old infant.

National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu described the perpetrators as evil and assured residents that the Federal Government would not relent until the victims were rescued.

Defence Minister Christopher Musa reiterated the President’s approval for the recruitment of forest guards and called on local communities to work closely with security agencies in combating criminal activities within the forested areas.

Meanwhile, the NUT announced the withdrawal of services by all public primary and secondary school teachers in Oyo State, citing the prolonged captivity of the victims and growing concerns about the safety of teachers and learners.

In a circular jointly signed by NUT National President Audu Amba and Secretary-General Dr Clinton Ikpitibo, the union expressed outrage over the conditions reportedly being endured by the abducted teachers and pupils.

“The National Leadership has directed all Primary and Secondary School teachers in Oyo State to withdraw their services from Monday, June 1, 2026, until the abducted teachers and students are safely released,” the union stated.

The union also directed its state chapters across the country to organise solidarity rallies on Tuesday, June 2, to demand the unconditional release of the abductees and advocate stronger security measures for schools nationwide.

The Oyo State chapter of the NUT confirmed full compliance with the directive, formally announcing the suspension of academic activities in public schools across the state.

However, the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS), Oyo State chapter, distanced itself from the planned protest rallies.

In a statement signed by its president, Fajobi Olukunle, the association said while it shared concerns over insecurity, it believed such issues should be addressed through dialogue and collaboration with government authorities rather than public demonstrations.

NAPPS reaffirmed its commitment to the safety of learners and educators and urged its members to remain focused on their academic responsibilities while advocating for improved security through lawful channels.

As rescue efforts continue, parents, community leaders and education stakeholders remain hopeful that the abducted pupils and teachers will soon be reunited with their families.