By Ado Oyeyemi
A heavy security presence was deployed across major parts of Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, on Monday as civil society groups staged a protest demanding the immediate rescue of dozens of students and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area.
The demonstrators, led by members of the Take-It-Back Movement and other advocacy groups, marched through key areas of the city, expressing concern over the continued captivity of the victims.
The victims, comprising 39 students and seven teachers, were reportedly kidnapped on May 15, 2026, during an attack on communities in Oriire LGA.
Security operatives, including personnel of the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, were strategically stationed at major locations across the metropolis to maintain order during the protest.
Areas monitored by security agents included the Oyo State Government Secretariat in Agodi, Idi Ape, Iwo Road, Sango, Mokola, Dugbe and Total Garden, among other busy locations.
The deployment was believed to be linked to fears that the demonstration could disrupt activities in parts of the city.
At Mokola Roundabout, where protesters gathered early in the morning, participants carried placards bearing messages calling for urgent government intervention and stronger security measures across the state.
Some of the inscriptions read, “Government must end kidnapping in Oyo State,” “Security for all, not for a few,” “Protect farmers, traders and students,” and “We demand safer roads and communities.”
The protesters urged both the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify efforts aimed at securing the release of the abducted students and teachers.
Speaking during the demonstration, one of the protesters, identified simply as Kunle, lamented the worsening security situation, saying residents were becoming increasingly frustrated by persistent cases of kidnapping and violent attacks.
He said the protest was intended to draw attention to the growing fears among citizens and to demand decisive action from authorities.
“We want the government to understand that people are no longer comfortable with the current security situation.
Residents of Oyo State and Nigerians generally deserve to live without fear,” he said.
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The protest came amid growing concerns over insecurity in parts of Oyo State, with calls mounting for authorities to ensure the safe return of the abducted victims and strengthen protection for communities vulnerable to attacks.
