The protesters
Members of the Take-It-Back Movement on Monday staged a protest at Mokola Roundabout in Ibadan, Oyo State, over the kidnapping of students and teachers by terrorists in the Oriire Local Government Area.
Some of the protesters were seen carrying placards with different inscriptions while expressing outrage at the worsening insecurity in the state, which they said is affecting residents, farmers, traders, and students. 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.”
Speaking during the protest, 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 the growing outrage over the continued stay of the victims in the terrorists’ camp two weeks after they were kidnapped from their schools in the Ahoro-Esiele community of Oriire Local Government Area.
The protesters, who converged on the busy junction in the state capital, called on the government and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the release of the victims and address the rising cases of kidnapping across Oyo State.
Governor Seyi Makinde had visited the community on Saturday, assuring the families of the victims that his administration will take all the necessary steps within the law to secure their release from the terrorists’ den. Makinde gave the assurance during a visit to Ahoro-Esiele community, where he met with affected families, community leaders, and residents at the open field of L.A. Basic School.
Speaking at the meeting, the governor said the state government shared the pain and concerns of the families and remained fully committed to ensuring the victims’ safe return.
“I understand the pain and anxiety that many of you are experiencing at this moment. As your government, we share your concerns, and we are fully committed to securing the safe return of our children and their teachers,” he said.
On Sunday, a delegation of the federal government of Nigerian led by the Chief of Staff to the president, Femi Gbajabiamila, visited the community to assess the situation and speak with families and community members.
