JUST IN: Gridlock as Protesters Block Road in Ibadan Over Insecurity [PHOTOS]

Protesters on Monday barricaded the Iwo Road area of Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, causing heavy traffic as they demanded urgent action to address rising insecurity and secure the release of abducted schoolchildren and teachers.

The demonstration, organised by the Take It Back Movement, began around 10 a.m. and drew scores of protesters carrying placards and chanting slogans calling on the government to end kidnapping across the country.

The protesters also demanded the immediate release of the 39 schoolchildren and teachers abducted in May in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

Speaking during the protest, the National Coordinator of the Take It Back Movement, Juwon Sanyaolu, said the demonstration was a continuation of the group’s campaign following the abduction.

“We will continue to protest until all abducted victims regain their freedom. Government officials are in the comfort of their homes and offices while innocent children and their teachers remain in the kidnappers’ den,” he said.

Sanyaolu stressed that the campaign was not limited to Oyo State, adding that the movement was demanding the release of all kidnapping victims across Nigeria.

“We are demanding freedom for all captives in the North, South, East and West of the country,” he said.

He criticised political leaders for focusing on preparations for the 2027 general elections while insecurity continues to threaten the lives of Nigerians.

“We cannot wait until 2027. By then, we may not know how many people will still be alive. That is why we are here in Ibadan, where this tragic abduction occurred. The state and federal governments must act decisively or continue to face sustained mass action,” Sanyaolu added.