By Private schools across Oyo State have moved to suspend academic activities for one day this week in solidarity with calls for the release of pupils and teachers abducted during recent attacks in Ogbomoso.
The decision was announced by the Coalition of Non-State Schools Oyo State (CONSSOS) in a communiqué issued on June 2, 2026, following a meeting convened in response to the kidnapping incidents reported in the Yawota and Esiele communities.
According to the communiqué signed by the Acting Chairman of CONSSOS, Engineer Jamiu Muhammed, and the Acting Secretary, Mr. Mayowa Solademi, all private schools in the state will remain closed on Friday, June 5, 2026, as a mark of solidarity with the victims and their families.
“All private schools across Oyo State shall be closed on Friday, June 5, 2026, only, in solidarity with calls for the prompt release of our kidnapped pupils and teachers,” the communiqué stated.
The coalition also directed schools to organise special prayer sessions on the same day to seek divine intervention and pray for the safety of schools, communities, and the state.
“A special prayer session shall be organized by all private schools across the state on the same day, seeking divine intervention, protection, peace, and security for our communities, schools, and the nation at large,” the statement read.
Parents, guardians, school proprietors, teachers, and students were encouraged to participate in the prayer programmes arranged by their respective schools.
CONSSOS condemned the wave of criminal activities that has raised concerns about safety in parts of the state and urged security agencies to intensify efforts to protect lives and property.
“The Coalition strongly condemns all forms of criminal activity and calls on the relevant security agencies to intensify efforts toward safeguarding lives and property within our communities,” the communiqué added..
The coalition expressed appreciation to stakeholders for their support and cooperation, noting that the collective efforts of residents, schools, and government institutions remain essential to achieving lasting peace and security in Oyo State.
