Residents of Abeokuta, Ogun State, on Monday staged a protest over rising insecurity and the abduction of school children and teachers in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, calling for urgent government action to secure the release of victims and protect communities.

The protesters, who gathered early in the morning around the Panseke area of Abeokuta, carried placards with inscriptions such as “Stop kidnapping, banditry,” “End insecurity, Nigeria is falling apart,” “Bring back our school children,” and “End terrorism in Nigeria.”

The demonstration followed the recent attack on three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, where armed men invaded Community Grammar School, L.A. Primary School in Ahoro-Esinele, and Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota, abducting pupils and teachers. One teacher and another resident were killed during the attack, while a kidnapped teacher, Mr Michael Oyedokun, was later beheaded by the attackers.

Speaking on behalf of the protesters, Pastor Juwon Owolabi said residents can no longer live in fear, stressing that insecurity has reached a critical point in the country.

He said citizens are no longer safe, regardless of social status, adding that urgent, coordinated action is needed by government authorities to end the crisis.

Another protester, Ada, an entrepreneur, said the insecure situation has disrupted businesses and daily life, making it difficult for traders to travel or operate normally.

She urged the government to prioritise the protection of lives and property, noting that many citizens are psychologically affected even if they are not directly impacted.

Precious Jonathan, a nursing mother, said she joined the protest out of concern for the abducted children, describing the situation as heartbreaking for mothers across the country.

She called for stronger government commitment to ensure the safe return of the victims and improved security for schools and communities.

Other protesters urged security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the abducted pupils and teachers, warning that continued attacks could further deepen public fear and insecurity across the country.