Protesting Nigerians in Abuja demand urgent rescue of abducted Oyo schoolchildren

|By Belema Tamunonemi and Adejumo Adekunle – Protesting Nigerians in Abuja flooded the streets of the Federal Capital Territory on Thursday, demanding urgent action for the rescue of abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State. The protesting Nigerians in Abuja accused authorities of failing to secure lives and restore confidence in the education system.

The demonstrators gathered in large numbers across key areas of Abuja. They sang solidarity songs and chanted slogans such as “Tinubu must go,” “Rescue them or resign,” and “Bring Nigerian children now.” The crowd insisted that their action remained lawful and protected under constitutional rights.

Security operatives, including the Nigeria Police Force, monitored the protest as tensions rose. However, the protesting Nigerians in Abuja urged officers to cooperate, stressing that their demonstration remained peaceful and civic-driven.

One protester, speaking on camera, directly addressed a passing motorist. He declared that leaders must be held accountable for the worsening insecurity. He urged citizens to share video evidence widely to draw national attention to the crisis.

The protest follows the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State by gunmen. The incident has triggered nationwide outrage and renewed debate on school safety.

Meanwhile, Yoruba Nation agitator Sunday Adeyemo, known as Sunday Igboho, claimed he was aware of individuals allegedly behind the kidnapping, further intensifying public concern.

Earlier in the week, teachers under the Nigeria Union of Teachers also staged protests across several states, demanding immediate rescue of the victims and stronger protection for schools.

Authorities have yet to announce major breakthroughs in the rescue operation, as pressure continues to mount.