Rain-Soaked Protesters Storm Oyo Government House Over Insecurity, Abduction Of Pupils, Teachers

Ibadan, Oyo State- Members of the Take-It-Back Movement and concerned residents on Monday stormed the Oyo State Government House in Ibadan, demanding urgent government intervention over worsening insecurity and the recent abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.

Despite heavy rainfall, the protesters defied the downpour and marched through major parts of Ibadan metropolis before arriving at the Government House to press home their demands.

The demonstrators had earlier converged at Mokola Roundabout, chanting solidarity songs and displaying placards with inscriptions condemning the rising wave of kidnappings and attacks across the state.

Some of the placards read, “Security for all, not for a few,” “End kidnapping in Oyo State now,” “Safer roads and communities now,” and “Protect farmers, traders and students.”

The protesters said the worsening insecurity in several communities had left residents living in fear, while accusing authorities of failing to adequately protect lives and property.

Speaking during the protest, some members of the Take-It-Back Movement described the demonstration as a civic responsibility aimed at drawing public attention to the plight of families affected by the recent abductions.

According to them, the kidnapping of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area has heightened tension among residents, parents and community leaders.

The protest followed growing outrage over reports that armed men recently invaded schools in communities within Oriire Local Government Area and abducted pupils and teachers.

The demonstrators called on the Oyo State Government and security agencies to intensify efforts toward rescuing the victims and tackling criminal activities across the state.

They also urged the government to improve security around schools and rural communities, warning that continued attacks could further endanger education and economic activities in affected areas.