Residents of Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State, on Monday took to the streets in a peaceful protest to demand the immediate rescue of dozens of schoolchildren and teachers abducted in neighboring Oyo State.
The demonstrators, made up of youths, traders, mothers and community leaders, converged on the Panseke area carrying placards with messages such as “Bring Back Our Kidnapped Children” and “Help Us Stop Kidnapping,” expressing growing concern over the worsening security situation in the country.
The protest follows the reported abduction of 39 pupils and seven teachers from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State in May, an incident that has sparked outrage and fear across communities in the South-West.
Speaking on behalf of the protesters, Pastor Juwon Owolabi described the kidnapping as a tragedy that has left many families traumatized and residents living in uncertainty. He stressed that insecurity continues to threaten livelihoods, businesses and the overall well-being of citizens.
According to him, meaningful development cannot thrive in an atmosphere of fear, urging authorities to deploy every available resource to secure the safe return of the victims and strengthen security in vulnerable communities.
Owolabi also called on Nigerians to remain united in demanding decisive action against kidnapping and other forms of criminality through peaceful and lawful means.
Some business owners at the protest lamented the impact of insecurity on economic activities. Entrepreneur Ada Comfort said fear of travelling had disrupted her ability to meet customers and conduct normal business operations.
She expressed sympathy for the abducted children, teachers and their families, describing their ordeal as heartbreaking and calling for urgent intervention from government and security agencies.
A nursing mother, Precious Jonathan, said she joined the protest because she wants a safer future for her children. She noted that the plight of the kidnapped pupils remains a source of worry for many parents, especially considering the harsh conditions they may be facing in captivity.
Also speaking, businessman Ayodeji Ojo urged security agencies to intensify rescue efforts and take stronger action against kidnappers and criminal groups. He further suggested enhanced protection for schools and vulnerable communities to prevent future attacks.
Security personnel, including officers of the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), were deployed to strategic locations to ensure the protest remained peaceful and orderly.
The demonstration adds to growing calls across the country for stronger measures to address kidnapping, which many Nigerians regard as one of the nation’s most pressing security challenges.