Motorists and commuters experienced severe traffic congestion in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Monday as members of the Take It Back Movement staged a protest against worsening insecurity and the continued abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in parts of the country.
The protest took place on June 22, 2026, at the busy Iwo Road axis in Ibadan, Oyo State, where members of the Take It Back Movement, led by National Coordinator Juwon Sanyaolu, gathered at about 10 a.m. to demand stronger security measures and the immediate release of students and teachers abducted in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State. The demonstration disrupted vehicular movement and drew attention to growing concerns over insecurity and kidnapping across Nigeria.
Protesters occupied sections of the major roadway, carrying placards and banners bearing messages calling for urgent government action to address the security situation.
The gathering quickly led to heavy traffic gridlock as vehicles were forced to slow down or seek alternative routes.
Many commuters were stranded for several hours as movement along one of Ibadan's busiest transportation corridors became increasingly difficult.
Commercial drivers, private motorists and passengers were among those affected by the disruption.
Participants in the protest said the demonstration was intended to draw public attention to the plight of victims of kidnapping and violent attacks across the country.
They expressed concern over the growing number of abductions involving students, teachers and other citizens.
The protesters specifically highlighted the recent kidnapping incident involving schoolchildren and teachers in Orire Local Government Area.
According to the organisers, the safety and welfare of those still in captivity remain a matter of urgent national concern.
Addressing protesters during the demonstration, Juwon Sanyaolu said the movement would continue to demand action until all abducted victims regain their freedom.
He argued that many innocent Nigerians remain in captivity while families continue to endure uncertainty and emotional distress.
Sanyaolu maintained that the protection of lives and property should remain a top priority for all levels of government.
He called on security agencies to intensify efforts aimed at rescuing victims and preventing future attacks.
According to him, the movement's campaign is focused on securing the release of all abducted persons regardless of their location in the country.
He stated that citizens have a right to demand accountability and effective security measures from public officials.
The activist also criticised what he described as increasing political attention on preparations for future elections while many communities continue to face security threats.
He stressed that insecurity remains one of the most pressing challenges confronting the nation.
Protesters insisted that meaningful action was needed to tackle kidnapping, banditry and other forms of violent crime.
They called for improved intelligence gathering, enhanced security deployment and stronger protection for vulnerable communities.
Several participants said the demonstration was organised to ensure that the issue remains in public discourse.
Some commuters caught in the traffic expressed frustration over the delays but acknowledged the concerns raised by the protesters.
Others noted that insecurity has affected communities in different parts of Nigeria and requires sustained attention.
The demonstration remained peaceful throughout its duration despite the significant disruption to vehicular movement.
Security personnel were observed monitoring activities in the area to maintain order and prevent any breakdown of law and order.
No incidents of violence were reported during the protest.
Businesses operating around the protest route also experienced varying degrees of disruption as movement became restricted.
Road users were advised to exercise patience and use alternative routes where possible.
The protest comes amid continuing concerns about the frequency of kidnappings and violent attacks in several states.
In recent years, incidents involving the abduction of students, teachers, travellers and community residents have generated widespread concern.
Security challenges have prompted repeated calls from civil society groups, community leaders and concerned citizens for stronger intervention measures.
Analysts have noted that public demonstrations have increasingly become a platform through which citizens express concerns over governance and security issues.
For members of the Take It Back Movement, the protest represents part of a broader campaign to advocate for improved security nationwide.
The group maintains that sustained civic engagement is necessary to ensure that authorities remain focused on protecting lives and securing the release of victims.
As traffic gradually returned to normal after the protest, attention remained on the demands presented by the demonstrators.
Many residents expressed hope that the concerns raised would contribute to renewed efforts by security agencies and government authorities to address the challenges of kidnapping and insecurity.
The demonstration added to growing public calls for decisive action to safeguard communities and restore confidence in the country's security framework.
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