Images: Chaos Erupts as Demonstrators Block Major Oyo Intersection

Gridlock has taken hold of Ibadan's Iwo Road area, a popular hub, as protesters have blocked the main thoroughfare on Monday, bringing activity to a standstill.

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The demonstration began around 10 am, with the Take It Back Movement, a human rights group, at the forefront, as protesters converged to express their demands.

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The protesters' key demands include an end to the prevailing insecurity across the country, as well as the immediate release of 39 abducted school children and teachers in Oyo State.

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Juwon Sanyaolu, the National Coordinator of the Take It Back Movement, explained that the protest is a direct continuation of the organisation's efforts since the abduction of children and teachers occurred in Oyo State's Orire Local Government Area in May.

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Sanyaolu emphasized that the protests will persist until all abducted victims are freed, criticising government officials for remaining in their comfortable offices while 46 students and teachers remain captive.

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The movement is calling for the liberation of all captives nationwide, spanning the North, South, West, and East of Nigeria, according to Sanyaolu.

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Sanyaolu also expressed frustration that politicians are focused on strategizing for the 2027 elections at a time when the country's security is severely compromised.

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The Take It Back Movement will not wait until 2027 to take action, Sanyaolu warned, stating that by then, the situation could have worsened significantly, with many lives potentially lost.

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The movement has chosen to protest in the heart of Ibadan, Oyo State, where the abduction took place, to push the state and federal governments into taking decisive action, or face continued mass protests, Sanyaolu cautioned.