Ondo residents protest killings, demand end to insecurity

By Boye Oyeyemi

Residents of Imafon, Igushin and Ilado communities in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State on Saturday staged a protest over renewed killings and attacks in the area.

The demonstrators blocked the busy Shoprite junction, close to the Governor’s Office in Akure, disrupting vehicular movement as they expressed anger over the spate of violence.

The protest followed recent attacks that left at least two persons dead and several others injured, heightening fear among residents.

According to reports, suspected bandits invaded Igushin community on Thursday during a failed kidnap attempt, killing a poultry farmer and her daughter.

Less than a day later, gunmen struck in Ilado community, abducting a youth who was reportedly injured while trying to escape from his captors.

Addressing newsmen, a youth leader, identified as Kunle, lamented what he described as the unchecked activities of armed criminals across communities in Akure North.

“We are protesting the incessant killings and kidnappings in Imafon, Igushin and Ilado. Within two days, lives have been lost and many families thrown into mourning. We want the government to act. We have not seen any impact of the security votes despite the worsening situation. We cannot continue to bury our people like this,” he said.

The protesters insisted that the demonstration would continue until authorities take decisive action to restore security.