Diaspora Protest Erupts in Canada as Demonstrators Call for Release of Oyo Schoolchildren and Government Accountability

Diaspora Protest Erupts in Canada as Demonstrators Call for Release of Oyo Schoolchildren and Government Accountability

June 13, 2026

 Nigerians living in Canada under the banner of the Take-It-Back Movement marked Nigeria’s Democracy Day with a passionate protest, demanding the immediate and unconditional release of abducted schoolchildren from Oyo State and condemning what they described as the Federal Government’s failure to tackle the worsening security crisis in the country.

The demonstrators, who gathered in a peaceful but emotionally charged rally, expressed outrage over the continued captivity of schoolchildren reportedly abducted in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State. They accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of showing insufficient urgency in responding to the plight of ordinary Nigerians affected by insecurity.

One of the protest organisers delivered a powerful speech that resonated strongly with the crowd, questioning whether the government would have reacted differently if the victims were children of influential political figures.

“Bring back these children. You know what you can do to bring them back. If Seyi Tinubu was among those kidnapped, he would be back home by now,” she declared, drawing loud applause and chants from fellow protesters.

The speaker argued that the apparent lack of swift action demonstrated a troubling disconnect between political leaders and the daily realities faced by ordinary Nigerians.

She further criticised what she described as the government's indifference to the suffering of families whose loved ones remain in captivity, while political elites continue to enjoy privileges and luxury.

“Families are crying. Parents do not know whether their children are safe, yet those in power continue with celebrations, parties and displays of wealth. How can leaders be comfortable when innocent children are living in fear?” she asked.

The protesters used the occasion of Democracy Day to reflect on the state of governance in Nigeria, insisting that democracy should translate into security, accountability and improved living conditions for citizens.

In a direct message to President Tinubu, the organiser called for political responsibility, saying leadership should be about delivering results rather than holding onto power.

“If you cannot solve these problems, then step down. You are as old as my father. I cannot imagine my father carrying such enormous responsibilities at this age. If you cannot do the job, please step aside and allow capable hands to take over,” she said.

The protest also evolved into a broader criticism of Nigeria’s political class, with participants accusing elected officials of corruption, greed and excessive accumulation of public resources while millions of citizens struggle with poverty and insecurity.

“For Christ’s sake, let the young people lead Nigeria. What is wrong with these greedy politicians? They keep accumulating wealth while ordinary Nigerians suffer. Some own nine cars, twenty cars, even fifty cars. You can only drive one at a time. Why are they so greedy?” the organiser questioned.

Several protesters carried placards bearing messages such as “Bring Back Our Children,” “Security Is A Right,” “Enough Is Enough,” and “Nigeria Deserves Better,” while others waved Nigerian flags and called for urgent reforms to address insecurity across the country.

The demonstration highlights growing frustration among Nigerians in the diaspora, many of whom have become increasingly vocal about governance issues back home. Activists at the rally argued that the persistent cases of kidnappings, bandit attacks and violent crimes have eroded public confidence in the government’s ability to protect lives and property.

The protest comes amid continuing concerns over mass abductions in several parts of Nigeria, with rights groups and civil society organisations repeatedly urging authorities to strengthen security measures and prioritise the rescue of victims.

As chants of “Bring Them Home” echoed through the protest venue, participants insisted that Democracy Day should not only celebrate Nigeria’s democratic journey but also serve as a reminder that government exists primarily to protect its citizens.

For the protesters, the continued captivity of innocent schoolchildren remains a painful symbol of a deeper national crisis—one they say can no longer be ignored.