Traffic was partially disrupted on Monday along the busy Iwo Road axis of Ibadan as protesters staged a demonstration demanding the immediate rescue of pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

 

The protesters, who converged on a section of the road, carried banners and placards calling on the government and security agencies to urgently secure the release of the victims and intensify efforts to address rising insecurity in the state.

 

During the protest, participants also engaged in prayers on the highway, seeking divine intervention for the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers, as well as an end to kidnapping and other violent crimes across Oyo State.

 

One of the banners displayed at the scene read: “Government Must Act – End Kidnapping in Oyo State,” while others bore inscriptions such as “Oyo Is Bleeding,” “Free the Ogbomoso Kidnapped Victims,” and “End Insecurity Now.”

 

The protesters listed their demands to include safer roads and communities, protection for farmers, traders, students and families, and the restoration of peace, security and justice across the state.

 

Some of the demonstrators expressed concern over what they described as a worsening wave of abductions in parts of Oyo State, warning that residents now live in fear due to the activities of criminal elements.

 

They called on the Oyo State Government, security agencies and other stakeholders to intensify rescue operations and strengthen security architecture to prevent further incidents.

 

The demonstration drew the attention of motorists, commuters and traders in the area, while security personnel were on ground to monitor the protest and ensure order.

 

The protesters insisted that the swift rescue of the abducted Oriire pupils and teachers must remain a priority, stressing that urgent action was needed to restore public confidence and guarantee the safety of residents.