Major traffic disruption hit parts of Ibadan on Friday as angry protesters blocked sections of the busy Iwo Road corridor, demanding urgent action over the recent abduction of teachers and pupils in Oyo State.

The demonstrators, made up of concerned residents, education stakeholders, and civil society groups, occupied key sections of the road, causing a severe gridlock that left hundreds of commuters stranded for hours.

Carrying placards and chanting solidarity songs, the protesters called on security agencies and government authorities to intensify efforts to secure the release of the abducted victims and improve security around schools across the state.

The protest follows growing outrage over recent attacks on educational institutions, which have heightened fears among parents, teachers, and students.

Motorists and commuters were forced to seek alternative routes as traffic built up across major roads leading into and out of the city. Business activities in parts of the affected areas were also disrupted by the demonstration.

Protest leaders said the action was intended to draw national attention to the security challenges facing schools and to press authorities to take stronger measures against kidnappers targeting educational communities.

Security personnel were deployed to the area to maintain order and monitor the protest, which remained largely peaceful despite the traffic chaos.

Residents expressed hope that the demonstration would prompt swift action from the government and security agencies to ensure the safe return of the abducted victims and prevent future attacks.