Ibadan witnessed a wave of public anger on Monday as protesters took to the streets over worsening insecurity in Oyo State and the continued captivity of abducted pupils and teachers from Oriire Local Government Area.
Members of the Take-It-Back Movement converged at major junctions in the state capital, demanding urgent action from government and security agencies to secure the release of the victims and curb the rising cases of kidnapping across the state.
The demonstrators carried placards with inscriptions such as “Security for all, not for a few,” “Government must end kidnapping in Oyo State,” “We demand safer roads and communities,” “Protect farmers, traders and students,” and “Peace, security and justice.”
They expressed deep frustration over what they described as the worsening insecurity affecting residents, including farmers, traders, and students across communities in the state.
One of the protesters, Ajani Akinwande, said citizens were increasingly losing confidence in the security situation, stressing that the government must do more to protect lives.
“Let them know that the people of Nigeria are not at peace. Let them know that the people of Oyo State are not smiling. Let them know that the Nigerian people are fed up with insecurity,” he said.
Outrage Over School Abduction
The protest comes amid growing public outrage over the abduction of dozens of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area, an incident that has intensified concerns over school safety in the state.
The Nigerian Union of Teachers has already declared an indefinite strike in response to the kidnapping, citing safety concerns for educators and students.
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Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, alongside federal authorities, is reportedly working to secure the release of the abducted victims.
President Bola Tinubu has also ordered the deployment of specialised security personnel to support ongoing rescue operations aimed at rescuing the kidnapped pupils and teachers and restoring stability in affected communities.
The incident has further heightened pressure on authorities to strengthen security architecture and prevent further attacks on schools and rural communities in the state.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.