By Emmanuel Olagunju
Private schools across Oyo State have announced a one-day closure on Friday, June 5, 2026, following recent kidnapping incidents in the Yawota and Esiele areas of Ogbomosho.
The decision was reached by the Coalition of Non-State Schools of Oyo State (CONSSOS), an umbrella body comprising major private school associations in the state.
The coalition said the action is aimed at expressing solidarity with victims of the abductions and calling for the immediate release of the kidnapped pupils and teachers.
In its resolution after the stakeholders meeting, the coalition directed all private schools in the state to suspend academic activities for the day while organizing special prayer sessions focused on peace, security, and the safety of schools and communities.
According to the statement, parents, guardians, school proprietors, teachers, and students are expected to participate in the prayer programmes coordinated by their respective schools.
The coalition also condemned the growing insecurity affecting communities and educational institutions, urging security agencies to strengthen efforts to protect lives and property across Oyo State.
“We appreciate the understanding and cooperation of all stakeholders as we collectively seek lasting peace and security in Oyo State,” the statement read.
The coalition reaffirmed its commitment to the safety and well-being of learners and education workers, stressing that collective action is necessary to draw attention to the urgent need for improved security in school communities throughout the state.
The Coalition of Non-State Schools of Oyo State includes the following associations:
National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS)
Association of Model Islamic Schools (AMIS)
Association of Private Approved Schools (APAPS)
Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI)
League of Muslim School Proprietors (LEAMSP)
Association for Formidable Educational Development (AFED)
Association of Private School Owners of Nigeria (APSON)
Association of Arabic and Islamic Schools (AAIS)
Joint Consultative Education Committee (JCEC).
