Heavy security as protest rocks Ibadan over abducted students, teachers

Heavy security presence was recorded in parts of Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, on Monday as civil society organisations (CSOs) staged a protest over the recent abduction of students and teachers in the state.

Very Nigerian reports that 39 students and seven teachers were kidnapped on Friday, May 15, 2026, from communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The protesters took to major streets in Ibadan, demanding urgent action from security agencies and the government to secure the release of the victims, who have remained in captivity since the incident.

Security operatives were deployed to strategic locations across the city to maintain law and order as the demonstrators carried placards and called for swift intervention to rescue the abducted students and teachers.

The CSOs expressed concern over the growing insecurity affecting schools and communities in the state, urging authorities to intensify efforts to ensure the safe return of all those abducted.

Very Nigerian observed the presence of operatives of security agencies such as the police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps, NSCDC, and others at strategic locations in Ibadan on Monday.

The security agents were seen at the entrance of Oyo State Government Secretariat in Agodi, Idi Ape and Iwo Road, as well as in Sango, Dugbe, Total Garden and Dugbe and Mokola Roundabout.

Our correspondent gathered that the presence of the security agents was due to the protest embarked on by the CSOs over the abduction.

Our correspondent who visited Mokola Roundabout around 8.30 am observed that members of Take-It-Back Movement led the protest.

The protesters called on the government and security agencies to intensify efforts in order to secure the release of the victims.

The protesters carried placards with various inscriptions to express their displeasure.

Some of the placards read, “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.”

One of the protesters, identified as Kunle, said Nigerians are becoming increasingly frustrated by the persistent security challenges in the country.

He said, “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.”

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