Ibadan – Private schools across Oyo State are set to close for one day on Friday, June 5, 2026, following growing concerns over the safety of pupils, students, and school personnel amid recent kidnapping incidents in parts of the state.
The decision was announced in a communiqué issued by the Coalition of Non-State Schools of Oyo State (CONSOS) after an emergency meeting held in response to the reported abductions in Yawota and Esiele communities in Ogbomoso.
According to the coalition, the temporary closure is intended as a symbolic gesture of solidarity with affected families and a call for the immediate release of kidnapped pupils and teachers. The group stressed that the action reflects the deep concern within the education sector over the increasing security challenges facing communities in Oyo State.
As part of the day’s activities, all private schools have been directed to organize special prayer sessions seeking divine intervention, protection, peace, and security for schools, communities, and the nation. Parents, guardians, school proprietors, teachers, and students are encouraged to participate in the prayer programmes as coordinated by their respective schools.
The coalition also used the opportunity to strongly condemn all forms of criminality and urged security agencies to intensify efforts to protect lives and property across the state. It called for stronger collaboration between government, security agencies, community leaders, and other stakeholders to address the growing threat of insecurity.
Education stakeholders have expressed concern that continued security breaches could negatively impact learning activities, school attendance, and public confidence in the safety of educational institutions.
The communiqué was signed by Engineer Jamiu Muhammed, Acting Chairman of CONSOS, and Mr. Mayowa Solademi, Acting Secretary.
The development highlights the increasing role of educational institutions in advocating for improved security and underscores the urgent need for measures that will guarantee the safety of children, teachers, and school communities throughout Oyo State.
