Rain or Shine: Protesters Flood Oyo Government House, Demand Swift Rescue of Abducted Teachers and Pupils

Rain or Shine: Protesters Flood Oyo Government House, Demand Swift Rescue of Abducted Teachers and Pupils

1st June 2026

Ibadan, Oyo State — Defying heavy rainfall and harsh weather conditions, dozens of protesters on Monday converged on the Oyo State Government House in Ibadan to demand urgent government intervention over the growing insecurity in the state, particularly the recent abduction of teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area.

The demonstrators, operating under the banner of the Take-It-Back Movement, marched through major roads leading to the Government House, carrying placards with various inscriptions calling for immediate action to secure the release of the kidnapped victims and improve security across Oyo State.

The protest comes amid rising public concern following the abduction of teachers and pupils from schools in the Ahoro-Esinele area of Oriire Local Government Area. The incident, which has sparked outrage among residents, parents, and civil society groups, has also led to an indefinite strike by public school teachers in the state.

Despite the persistent downpour, protesters remained resolute, chanting solidarity songs and demanding accountability from authorities. Many described the worsening security situation as unacceptable, urging the state government and security agencies to intensify rescue efforts and prevent further attacks on educational institutions.

Addressing journalists during the demonstration, leaders of the movement condemned what they described as a growing wave of insecurity affecting communities across the state. They argued that schools should remain safe environments for learning and not become targets for criminal activities.

The protesters expressed concern over the psychological trauma being experienced by affected families and communities, noting that many parents have become fearful of sending their children to school following the abductions.

"We cannot continue to watch innocent pupils and teachers become victims of criminal attacks while authorities offer assurances without visible results," one of the protest coordinators said. "The government must act decisively to ensure the safe return of those abducted and restore confidence in the security of our schools."

The demonstration attracted attention from residents and motorists, many of whom applauded the protesters' determination despite the adverse weather conditions. Some citizens joined the march along the route, expressing solidarity with the victims and their families.

Security personnel were deployed around the Government House to monitor the protest and maintain order. The demonstration remained peaceful, with protesters submitting their demands and calling for sustained efforts to tackle insecurity across the state.

The latest protest highlights growing frustration among citizens over recurring cases of kidnapping and attacks on educational institutions in parts of the country. Stakeholders have repeatedly warned that continued threats to schools could negatively impact education, particularly in rural communities where access to learning opportunities is already limited.

As the situation continues to unfold, residents of Oyo State are looking to both state and federal authorities for decisive measures that will guarantee the safety of students, teachers, and communities while ensuring the swift rescue of those still in captivity.

For many of the protesters who stood in the rain to make their voices heard, the message was clear: the safety of children and educators must remain a top priority, and urgent action can no longer be delayed.