The Oyo State Government has praised the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) at both the national and state levels for suspending its industrial action and directing public primary school teachers to return to their classrooms, allowing schools across the state to reopen.
The government described the decision as a welcome development that would protect the educational future of thousands of pupils who had been out of school during the month-long strike.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, recalled that the State Executive Council, during its meeting last Tuesday, appealed to the union to reconsider its action in the interest of schoolchildren.
Oyelade explained that the government’s appeal was motivated by concerns about the welfare and safety of pupils, noting that keeping children away from school for an extended period could expose them to crime, social vices, and other risks associated with prolonged idleness.
He added that the union’s decision to suspend the strike had not only restored learning in public primary schools but had also prevented the state from facing additional social challenges.
According to the commissioner, the suspension of the industrial action spared the government and residents from the combined burden of addressing the kidnapping incident that triggered the strike and the possible negative consequences of leaving schoolchildren idle for an extended period.
The commissioner also thanked the people of Oyo State for their patience, understanding, and continued support throughout the strike and the ongoing security situation.
He noted that the government remains committed to resolving the security challenges responsible for the industrial action while ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents.
With the strike now suspended, public primary schools across Oyo State are expected to resume normal academic activities immediately, bringing relief to parents, pupils, teachers, and other stakeholders in the education sector.
