Hundreds of angry residents, teachers, youths, and civil society groups took to the streets of Ibadan today, blocking sections of the busy Iwo Road axis to protest the prolonged abduction of pupils and teachers from Oriire Local Government Area. The demonstrators are demanding immediate and decisive action from the Oyo State Government and security agencies to rescue the victims, who have been in captivity for over 38 days.
The protest, which caused significant traffic disruption along Iwo Road and surrounding areas, was largely peaceful. Protesters observed prayers on the road and chanted solidarity songs while calling for the safe return of the abducted children and their teachers.
The abduction occurred on May 15, 2026, when gunmen attacked Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota, Community Grammar School in Esiele, and L.A. Primary School in Ahoro-Esinele communities in Oriire LGA. Reports indicate that approximately 39 pupils (aged 2 to 16) and 7 teachers were taken. One teacher was reportedly killed shortly after the incident.
Leaders of the protest, including members of the Take It Back Movement and other concerned groups, expressed frustration over the slow pace of rescue efforts. “Our children and teachers have been in the hands of kidnappers for far too long. We demand their immediate and unconditional rescue. Enough is enough with this insecurity,” one protester stated.
The demonstrators criticized political leaders for failing to prioritize the safety of citizens, particularly vulnerable schoolchildren, and urged both state and federal authorities to intensify operations to free the hostages without paying ransom, as previously indicated by security officials.
Residents and commuters faced hours of gridlock, highlighting the growing public anger over the persistent insecurity in the region. Security personnel monitored the situation to maintain order.
The protesters vowed to sustain pressure until the abducted pupils and teachers are safely reunited with their families.