Concern Grows As Oyo School Strike Leaves Pupils Idle
The ongoing indefinite strike by the Nigeria Union of Teachers in Oyo State has kept public school pupils at home, raising concerns among parents and education stakeholders over children’s safety and learning progress.
The strike began on June 1 after the abduction of teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area.
Parents and teachers in Ibadan say the prolonged school closure has left many children idle, with some roaming the streets or engaging in trading activities.
Others noted that without school routines, many pupils are struggling to stay focused on learning, while parents juggle supervision with work.
Teachers and parents have expressed worries that children may be exposed to negative influences during the break.
Some households have tried to keep children engaged through apprenticeships, home guidance, and community supervision, but younger children remain most affected due to lack of structured activities.
Stakeholders are calling on the state government to resolve the strike and strengthen security in schools.
They also stressed the need for urgent action to ensure the safe return of abducted pupils and restore normal academic activities across the state.
