Angry residents of several communities in Akure North Local Government Area staged a dramatic protest on Tuesday, blocking the busy Akure–Owo Highway over the increasing cases of kidnappings and killings in the area.
The demonstrators barricaded the major road with the body of a man reportedly killed by kidnappers, bringing traffic along the highway to a complete standstill. Eyes Of Lagos reports,
Witnesses said the protest drew a large number of residents who expressed frustration over what they described as worsening insecurity affecting their communities.
During the demonstration, protesters carried placards with messages such as “We Are Dying, Save Our Souls,” “Mr Governor, Please Assist Us,” and “Our Children Are in Danger and We Cannot Go to Farms Again.”
Residents lamented that frequent kidnappings have made it unsafe for farmers to visit their farms or for families to sleep peacefully at night.
According to them, many rural communities around Akure North have become targets for criminal groups who regularly abduct people for ransom.
The protesters insisted they would not reopen the highway until the government takes concrete steps to address the security situation.
The protesters specifically demanded the presence of Lucky Aiyedatiwa at the scene before they would consider ending the blockade.
They urged the state government to urgently deploy stronger security measures to protect lives and property in the affected communities.
The protest later attracted the attention of the state police command.
Adebowale Lawal, the Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, reportedly intervened and engaged the protesters in dialogue.
After discussions with community leaders, the police chief persuaded the demonstrators to allow traffic to resume along the highway.
He also assured residents that additional police officers and tactical units would be deployed to the affected areas to strengthen security and combat criminal activities.
The protest comes just a day after another kidnapping incident in the state.
Reports indicate that the Secretary of Okeluju Local Council Development Area in Akoko North West Local Government Area was abducted on Monday while working on his farm alongside two other individuals.
The rising cases of kidnapping across several parts of the state have heightened fear among residents and triggered renewed calls for stronger security operations.
Community members say urgent intervention is needed to prevent further loss of lives and restore safety in rural areas.