Public school activities across Oyo State have halted following an indefinite strike by teachers, raising concerns about access and support for candidates writing the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination.

The Nigeria Union of Teachers directed members to withdraw services after the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15. The attack affected three schools in the Ogbomoso axis, where 39 students and seven teachers were taken, and two individuals were killed. Days later, one of the abducted teachers, Michael Oyedokun, was killed, intensifying national concern.

Despite the shutdown of public primary and secondary schools, candidates participating in the 2026 WASSCE are still being allowed into school premises strictly for examinations, alongside teachers assigned to invigilation duties. Other students who arrived at schools were turned back as compliance with the strike remained widespread across Ibadan and other parts of the state.

The union confirmed that the action, which began on June 1, followed a delayed response due to the ongoing examinations. In a circular dated May 29, 2026, and signed by Audu Amba and Clinton Ikpitibo, the union also instructed state branches to organise solidarity rallies.

Salami Olukayode disclosed that the timing reflected consideration for candidates. “It is the same consideration for the ongoing WAEC exams that has delayed our response till this time,” Olukayode stated. “But there is a limit to human endurance, and since we couldn’t continue like that, we had to take action starting today.

“The teachers who have roles to play in the exams are the same ones affected by the abduction.

“We don’t expect the mass action to affect the exams since it’s international. So, school management should find ways to handle the situation.”

Teachers confirmed adherence to the directive. “We are all complying in solidarity with the affected teachers, pupils, and their families. We pray that the abducted victims will regain their freedom and return home safely,” Yemisi Alao stated.

Authorities have initiated responses, with President Bola Tinubu ordering the deployment of a specialised security unit, while top government officials visited affected communities.

The WASSCE, which began on April 21, is scheduled to end on June 19.