Residents and activists on Saturday converged along the Karu Bridge axis of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to protest worsening insecurity and demand rescue of teachers and pupils abducted from schools in Oyo State.
The protesters occupied sections of the busy highway linking Nyanya, Karu and the city centre, causing major traffic disruptions and completely blocking the carriageway leading towards Asokoro.
Video footage from the scene showed large crowds carrying placards and chanting solidarity songs as heavily armed security personnel, including police and military operatives, were deployed to maintain order.
The demonstrators called on the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the release of the abducted victims.
Many of the protesters expressed concern over the safety of schools, insisting that children should not be forced to learn under fear of abduction.
The protest comes weeks after armed men attacked schools in Ahoro-Esinle, Yawota and surrounding communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on May 15, 2026.
During the attacks, about 46pupils and teachers were abducted from Community High School, Ahoro-Esinle, and Yawota Baptist Nursery and Primary School.
Among those abducted was a two-year-old child, Christianah Akanbi. One of the teachers, Michael Oyedokun, was later killed by the kidnappers.
The protesters carried placards calling for justice and the safe return of the victims, while accusing authorities of not doing enough to tackle kidnapping and violent crimes.
Security operatives formed a barricade around parts of the protest ground, while monitoring the situation as demonstrators continued their march.
The Federal Government has repeatedly assured Nigerians that efforts are ongoing to rescue the abducted teachers and pupils. FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, Vice President Kashim Shettima and other officials have said security agencies are working to secure the victims’ release.
As of the time of press, many of the abducted teachers and schoolchildren remained in captivity.
The protesters said they would continue to demand action until the victims are safely reunited with their families.
(The Whistler)
