Video: Protesters defy rain, storm Oyo govt house over mid‑May abduction

Abdullateef Fowewe

Hundreds of protesters braved heavy rainfall and stormy conditions on Monday to converge at the Oyo State Government House in Ibadan, demanding urgent government action following a mid‑May mass abduction that left about 46 people — including young children and teachers — in captivity.

Organisers said the demonstration was sparked by the kidnapping in Oriire Local Government Area, where videos circulated online showing captives exposed to harsh conditions in the bush, including prolonged rain and poor shelter.

Those images intensified public anger and pushed families, rights activists and concerned citizens to press state and federal government for immediate rescue efforts.

Witnesses described a wet, determined crowd confronting security personnel at the Government House entrance, chanting for accountability and quicker responses to the surge in school‑targeted attacks.

Protesters carried placards and chanted slogans demanding improved security for schools, the safe return of the abducted, and clear timelines for government action.

Despite the weather, organisers claimed the turnout reflected growing frustration across the state over recurring kidnappings and the perceived slow pace of rescue and prosecution efforts.

Civil society groups at the scene urged the Oyo State government and federal security agencies to intensify intelligence‑led operations, increase protection for schools, and provide regular updates to victims’ families.

The mid‑May abduction in Oriire LGA has become a focal point for growing national concern over attacks on educational institutions, prompting calls for a coordinated security and policy response to protect pupils and teachers across Nigeria.