Protesters block Oyo highway over rising insecurity
Scores of residents in Afijio Local Government Area of Oyo State staged a protest at the Jobele end of the Ibadan–Oyo Expressway, highlighting concerns over frequent kidnapping and banditry. The demonstration disrupted both vehicle and pedestrian movement, drawing attention to the community’s frustration with ongoing criminal activities. Protesters insisted they would not leave the road until authorities addressed their security concerns. Dolapo Awotunde, a community representative, called for urgent action from the police and state government.
What happened
- Residents blocked the Ibadan–Oyo Expressway to protest repeated kidnappings and banditry in the area.
- Protesters cited a recent attempted abduction where a woman escaped but was injured.
- Dolapo Awotunde reported at least seven kidnapping incidents in Afijio Local Government Area in recent times.
- During a recent attack, a victim suffered severe injuries, resulting in the amputation of a hand.
- The release of a suspect by police without explanation intensified outrage, prompting further demonstrations and calls for urgent intervention.
