Protesters on Monday paralysed movement along the busy Iwo Road interchange in Ibadan, Oyo State, demanding the release of abducted schoolchildren and teachers.
The demonstration caused major traffic disruptions as motorists and commuters struggled to access the route during the protest.
The protesters, led by the Take It Back Movement, converged on the area at about 10 a.m.
They called for the immediate release of pupils and teachers abducted in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The group also urged authorities to intensify efforts to tackle the growing insecurity affecting communities across Nigeria.
Vehicular movement around the Iwo Road axis was severely affected as protesters occupied strategic sections of the road.
Many motorists were forced to seek alternative routes, while several commuters trekked long distances to reach their destinations.
Speaking during the protest, the National Coordinator of the movement, Juwon Sanyaolu, said the action was aimed at securing the victims’ freedom.
According to him, the demonstration forms part of a series of activities initiated by the group since the abduction occurred in May.
Sanyaolu said the organisation would continue to mount pressure on authorities until all victims regain their freedom.
“We will continue to protest for the release of all abducted victims until they are free.”
He expressed concern over the plight of the abducted students and teachers, saying they remain in captivity while government officials continue their normal activities.
“We believe that government officials are in the comfort of their rooms and offices while innocent 46 students and their teachers are languishing in the kidnappers’ den.”
The activist said the campaign extends beyond Oyo State and covers victims of abduction across the country.
“We are demanding freedom for all captives in the North, South, West and East of Nigeria,” Sanyaolu said.
He also criticised political leaders for allegedly paying greater attention to preparations for the 2027 elections than addressing insecurity.
According to him, Nigerians face daily threats to their safety, making security a more urgent national priority.
“We will not be sitting until 2027. By that time, we won’t even know how many will be alive.”
He said the protest was deliberately held in Ibadan because the state remains directly affected by the abduction incident.
“So that is why we are at the heart of Ibadan in Oyo State, where the abduction took place.”
Sanyaolu warned that citizens would continue to organise demonstrations if decisive action is not taken.
“The state and federal governments must act, or they will continue to witness mass action,” he added.
The protest created a heavy traffic build-up around the Iwo Road corridor, one of the busiest transport routes in Oyo State.
Normal movement gradually resumed after the protesters concluded their demonstration and vacated the area.
