Major roads in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, were brought to a standstill on Monday as protesters blocked the busy Iwo Road interchange to express anger over worsening insecurity and the increasing cases of kidnapping in the state.
The protest, organised by the Take It Back Movement, a human rights advocacy group, began around 10 a.m. with demonstrators occupying the strategic junction and disrupting traffic along one of the city’s busiest routes.
The protesters demanded urgent government action to address insecurity and secure the release of 39 schoolchildren and teachers who were abducted in Orire Local Government Area in May.
Speaking during the protest, the National Coordinator of the movement, Juwon Sanyaolu, said the demonstration was part of a wider campaign calling for the freedom of all kidnapped victims across Nigeria.
He said the group would continue its protests until all abducted persons regain their freedom, accusing authorities of failing to act decisively.
“We will continue to protest for the release of all abducted victims until they are free. While officials remain in their offices, innocent students and teachers are suffering in captivity,” Sanyaolu said.
The protesters carried placards and banners demanding an end to kidnappings and improved security across the country.
Sanyaolu also criticised political leaders for focusing on the 2027 elections while insecurity continues to threaten lives.
“We will not wait until 2027. We do not know how many people may still be alive by then. Both state and federal governments must act or continue to face public protests,” he added.
The demonstration caused heavy traffic congestion around the Iwo Road area, leaving many commuters stranded for hours as security agencies monitored the situation.
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