PICTORIAL: Sowore-led Take-It-Back Movement Protests Abductions Of Oyo Schoolchildren, Teachers

Members of the civil society organisation, Take-It-Back Movement, on Monday morning, staged a protest at Mokola Roundabout in Ibadan, Oyo State capital, demanding urgent action over the worsening security situation in the state and the continued captivity of abducted pupils and teachers from Oriire Local Government Area of the State.

The demonstrators, who gathered at the busy intersection in the state capital, called on both the Oyo State Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the release of the victims and tackle the growing menace of kidnapping across the state.

Carrying placards bearing various inscriptions, the protesters expressed concern over what they described as escalating insecurity affecting residents, farmers, traders, students and other vulnerable groups.

Some of the placards displayed messages such as, “Security for all, not for a few,” “Government must end kidnapping in Oyo State,” “We demand safer roads and communities,” “Protect farmers, traders and students,” and “Peace, security and justice.”

Speaking during the demonstration, one of the protesters said Nigerians were becoming increasingly frustrated by the persistent security challenges confronting the country.

“Let them know that the people of Nigeria are not at peace. Let them know that the people of Oyo State are not smiling. Let them know that the Nigerian people are fed up with insecurity,” the protester said.

The protest comes amid growing public outrage over the abduction of the pupils, students and teachers following attacks on schools and surrounding communities in Ahoro-Esiele, Ori-ire Local Government Area of Ogbomosoland in Oyo State.

The victims were kidnapped when armed men invaded the schools and nearby communities, triggering widespread concern among parents, residents and other stakeholders.

Relatives of the abductees have repeatedly appealed to the state government and security agencies to intensify rescue operations and ensure the safe return of their loved ones.

Monday’s demonstration also followed a series of emotional appeals by family members of the victims, who have continued to express frustration over the prolonged captivity of the abducted pupils and teachers.

The Take-It-Back Movement, led by activist Omoyele Sowore, said the protest was aimed at drawing attention to the plight of the victims and demanding concrete action from authorities to address insecurity in Oyo State.

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