Despite a heavy downpour, members of the Take-It-Back Movement on Monday staged a protest at the Oyo State Government House in Ibadan, demanding urgent action to tackle insecurity and secure the release of abducted pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.
The protesters, who initially gathered at Mokola Roundabout, marched through major roads in the state capital before arriving at the Government House.
Carrying placards with inscriptions such as “End Kidnapping in Oyo State Now,” “Security for All, Not for a Few,” and “Protect Farmers, Traders and Students,” the demonstrators called on the government and security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the victims and improve safety across the state.
Speaking during the protest, participants said the worsening security situation had left many residents living in fear and uncertainty. They stressed that the rainfall would not discourage them from drawing attention to the plight of families whose loved ones remain in captivity.
The demonstration follows widespread public concern over the recent abduction of pupils and teachers after gunmen reportedly attacked schools and communities in Oriire Local Government Area.
Residents and relatives of the victims have continued to appeal to authorities to expedite rescue operations and ensure the safe return of those kidnapped.
The protesters maintained that addressing insecurity and protecting lives should remain a top priority for the government, urging swift and decisive action to end the growing threat of kidnapping in Oyo State.
