Traffic was brought to a standstill along the busy Iwo Road interchange in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Monday as protesters blocked major sections of the road to demand the release of abducted schoolchildren and teachers.
The demonstration, which began around 10 a.m., was organised by the Take It Back Movement and drew attention to the plight of the victims kidnapped in Orire Local Government Area of the state in May.
Speaking during the protest, the movement’s National Coordinator, Juwon Sanyaolu, said the action was part of a sustained campaign to secure the freedom of the abducted students and teachers.
According to him, the group would continue its protests until all those held captive regain their freedom.
“This protest is a continuation of the actions we have taken since the abduction of the children and their teachers,” Sanyaolu said.
“We will continue to demand the release of all abducted victims. While government officials remain in the comfort of their offices, 46 students and their teachers are still in captivity. We are calling for the freedom of all abductees across every part of Nigeria.”
Sanyaolu also criticised political leaders for prioritising preparations for the 2027 general elections while insecurity continues to threaten lives and livelihoods across the country.
“We cannot wait until 2027. By then, many lives may have been lost. That is why we are protesting here in Ibadan, where the abduction occurred. The state and federal governments must act decisively or continue to face public resistance and mass action,” he said.
The protest caused significant traffic congestion around the Iwo Road axis, one of Ibadan’s busiest transport hubs. Motorists were forced to seek alternative routes, while many commuters resorted to trekking to their destinations as the demonstration continued.
