Residents of communities in Ondo State have taken to the streets in protest over the rising cases of abductions and killings in the area.
The demonstration, led by youths from Imafon, Igushin, and Ilado communities in Akure North Local Government Area, saw protesters barricade the busy ShopRite Junction near the Governor’s Office in Akure. Carrying tree branches, they expressed anger over what they described as persistent and unchecked attacks by gunmen.
The protest followed a series of violent incidents in the affected communities. On Thursday, gunmen reportedly killed a poultry farmer and her daughter in Igushin, while two other victims were rescued by police. Barely 24 hours later, another attack occurred in Ilado community, where a youth was shot and hacked while attempting to escape abduction.
Speaking during the protest, a youth leader identified as Kunle lamented the deteriorating security situation, accusing authorities of failing to protect residents. He said the repeated attacks have thrown the communities into mourning, with families burying loved ones almost weekly.
Kunle questioned the effectiveness of government spending on security, noting that residents have seen little or no improvement in safety despite allocations meant for that purpose. He alleged that gunmen operate freely within Akure and surrounding areas without fear of arrest.
“We are tired of the killings and kidnappings happening every day. People are being murdered, and nothing is being done. We do not see security patrols or any real response,” he said.
The protesters called on the government to take urgent and decisive action to safeguard lives and property. They warned that demonstrations would continue until concrete measures are implemented to address the crisis.
The unrest highlights growing concerns over insecurity in parts of the state, with residents demanding greater accountability and visible efforts from authorities to restore peace.
