The Nigeria Union of Teachers has called on teachers and well-wishers across Oyo State to embark on a three-day fasting and prayer session following the kidnapping of a school principal, teachers, and students in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
In a statement dated May 17, 2026, and signed by the State Secretary of the union, Salami B. Olukayode, the union expressed deep concern over the deadly attack on schools in the area.
According to the statement, the attack, which occurred in the early hours of Friday, May 15, 2026, led to the killing of a teacher and a commuter, while several others were abducted.
The victims were reportedly drawn from Yawota Basic School, Yawota Community High School, and Esinele Community High School.
The union noted that those kidnapped include a school principal, teachers, and a number of students.
“As directed by the state leadership of NUT, Oyo State Wing ably led by Comrade Hassan Ajibola Fatai, I write with deep concern and heartfelt sympathy regarding the unfortunate deadly attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area,” the statement read.
While acknowledging ongoing rescue efforts by security agencies and the government, the union appealed to its members and residents across the state to engage in spiritual supplications for the safe release of the captives.
“We humbly appeal to all our teeming members and generality of teachers, and well-wishers across the state to commit ourselves into a 3-day fasting and prayers rooted in their respective religious faiths for the safe, speedy and unconditional release of our dear colleagues held in captivity,” the statement added.
The union also directed schools across the state to observe a joint prayer session by 12 noon on each of the three days.
The NUT expressed confidence that the collective prayers would contribute positively to the rescue mission and urged members to remain calm, law-abiding, and united in support of the affected families and communities.
The statement was jointly endorsed by State Chairman Hassan A. Fatai, State Secretary Salami B. Olukayode, and State Treasurer Titilolu Ibukunolu S.
