By SUNTV Global Channel | July 2, 2026
The Oyo State chapter of Socialist Labour has criticised the decision by the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) to suspend its stay-at-home strike over the abduction of teachers and schoolchildren, insisting that the action should have continued until the victims regain their freedom.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the group argued that ending the industrial action while the abducted teachers and students remain in captivity sends the wrong message and weakens efforts to address insecurity in schools.
The NUT had on Wednesday announced the suspension of the strike following a directive from its national leadership. The union said the decision came after reviewing the security situation and receiving assurances from the Oyo State Government that efforts were ongoing to secure the safe release of the abductees.
However, Socialist Labour urged teachers, students and other stakeholders not to relent, calling instead for sustained peaceful demonstrations across the state.
The organisation also encouraged schools to hold meetings and mobilise for regular protests to demand stronger security measures for educational institutions.
According to the group, its members visited schools across Oyo State and found that many institutions still lacked basic security infrastructure, including perimeter fencing and the deployment of security personnel.
It warned that teachers and students remain vulnerable to attacks by kidnappers and armed groups if urgent action is not taken.
The group further called on the national leadership of the NUT to coordinate weekly peaceful protests across Nigeria, arguing that attacks on schools have become a nationwide concern.
Socialist Labour also cited recent reports of another school attack in Borno State as evidence that insecurity continues to threaten the education sector across the country.
The organisation urged organised labour, civil society groups, parents and students to unite in demanding improved security, safer learning environments and stronger government action against kidnapping and violent crime.
According to the group, the campaign should extend beyond securing the release of the abducted victims to ensuring long-term protection for schools and communities.
Meanwhile, the Oyo State Government has maintained that security agencies are working to rescue the abducted teachers and students safely.
SUNTV Global Channel will continue to monitor the situation and provide verified updates as more information becomes available.
