Concern is growing across Oyo State as the indefinite strike by public school teachers keeps thousands of pupils out of classrooms. Parents and education stakeholders fear the disruption could harm children’s academic progress. They also worry it could expose them to negative influences.
The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) began the strike on June 1. The action followed the abduction of teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15.
Since then, public primary and secondary schools across the state have remained closed. The shutdown has created challenges for many families.
Mrs Yemisi Alao, a teacher, criticised parents who leave their children unsupervised while attending work or business activities.
She said some parents rely entirely on the government. As a result, they pay little attention to their children’s learning during the strike.
“Children need guidance and supervision at this time,” she said. “Without proper monitoring, they can easily fall into bad company.”
Alao said the strike came at a crucial point in the academic calendar. Schools were preparing for continuous assessment exercises before the shutdown.
She warned that teachers may struggle to complete the curriculum when classes resume.
“Rushing lessons to recover lost time could affect learning outcomes,” she added.
Parents in several parts of Ibadan say many children now spend their days roaming the streets. Others help their families sell goods.
Mr Godwin Obinna, who lives in Mokola, said his children constantly ask when schools will reopen.
“They keep asking if there will be no schooling again,” he said. “I tell them the situation is temporary, but it is becoming difficult.”
Obinna said the prolonged closure has increased the number of children seen outside during school hours.
He urged the state government to address the issues behind the strike. He also called for stronger security measures in schools.
“Government must ensure schools remain safe for both teachers and pupils,” he said.
