Members of the Take-It-Back Movement on Monday took to the streets at Mokola Roundabout in Ibadan, Oyo State, to protest the worsening security situation in the state and the continued detention of pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area.
The demonstrators, who gathered at the busy intersection, urged the government and security agencies to step up efforts to rescue the victims and curb the increasing wave of kidnappings across the state.
Holding placards with different messages, the protesters voiced concern over what they described as rising insecurity affecting farmers, traders, students, and other residents.
Some of the inscriptions read: “Security for all, not for a few,” “End kidnapping in Oyo State now,” “Safer roads and communities now,” “Protect farmers, traders and students,” and “We demand peace, security and justice.”
One of the protesters, while speaking during the demonstration, said citizens were becoming increasingly distressed by the persistent security challenges in the country.
“Nigerians are not at peace. Oyo State is not at peace. People are tired of insecurity,” the protester said.
The protest is coming in the wake of public outrage over the abduction of pupils, students, and teachers during an attack on schools in the Ahoro-Esiele area of Oriire Local Government.
The victims were taken when armed men invaded the schools and nearby communities, leaving residents and parents in fear and confusion.
Family members of the abducted victims have continued to call on the Oyo State Government and security agencies to intensify rescue operations and ensure the safe return of their relatives.