By Zainab Bakare
The indefinite strike by public school teachers in Oyo State has sparked growing concern among parents and education stakeholders, who warn that prolonged school closures are disrupting learning and exposing children to negative influences.
The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) in Oyo State directed teachers in public primary and secondary schools to embark on an indefinite strike from June 1 following the abduction of teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15.
Speaking to the newsmen in Ibadan on Wednesday, several parents and teachers said the strike has left many pupils and students without meaningful engagement, with some now roaming the streets or assisting their parents with trading activities.
A teacher, Mrs Yemisi Alao, expressed concern over what she described as the poor supervision of children during the strike period.
She said many parents leave their children unattended while they go to work, adding that some children placed under apprenticeship programmes are not fully committed to learning.
“Ignorance has led many parents to neglect their children’s future. They believe the government should do everything without them lifting a finger,” she said.
Alao noted that the strike came at a critical academic period when schools were preparing for continuous assessment tests, warning that teachers may be forced to rush lessons when schools eventually resume.
She urged community members to engage children in productive activities such as reading, sports and mentorship programmes to keep them occupied and away from harmful influences.
A parent, Mr Godwin Obinna, said his children have become increasingly anxious about their education.
“My children keep asking whether there will be no schooling again. I keep reassuring them that the situation is temporary and things will get better,” he said.
called on the state government to resolve the issues behind the strike and strengthen security in schools to prevent future incidents.
Another parent, Mrs Bolajoko Yusuf, said residents in her neighbourhood had adopted a community-based approach to monitoring children while parents are away at work.
Similarly, Adeola Aina said she enrolled her children in tailoring apprenticeships to keep them engaged during the strike, although younger children remain particularly vulnerable because they are too young for such programmes.
The ongoing strike has continued to fuel concerns about learning disruptions and child welfare, with parents urging authorities and education stakeholders to find a lasting solution and ensure pupils return to classrooms as soon as possible.
