VeryDarkMan leads protest over Oriire LG attack, demands rescue of abductees
By Adejayan Gbenga
Social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, on Tuesday led a protest at Iwo Road in Ibadan, Oyo State, calling for the immediate and unconditional release of schoolchildren and teachers abducted by suspected kidnappers in the state.
The protest attracted a large turnout of youths and concerned residents who joined the activist in marching through the busy Iwo Road axis. The demonstrators carried placards with various inscriptions and chanted solidarity songs to draw attention to the plight of the victims.
Participants used the opportunity to express deep concern over the rising insecurity in parts of Oyo State and other regions of the country. They urged relevant authorities and security agencies to intensify efforts toward rescuing the abducted students and teachers without delay.
The protesters specifically called on the government to adopt stronger and more coordinated strategies to combat kidnapping and other violent crimes affecting communities, stressing that the protection of lives should remain a top priority.
Speaking during the demonstration, several participants emphasized that the continued captivity of the victims reflects the urgent need for improved security responses. They insisted that both federal and state authorities must take decisive steps to prevent further occurrences.
The peaceful protest, however, led to temporary disruption of movement around the Iwo Road area, as vehicular and pedestrian traffic slowed significantly while the demonstration lasted.
Residents and passersby observed the protest as it unfolded, with many expressing support for the call for urgent intervention and the safe return of the abducted victims.
The protest comes amid growing public concern over the abduction of more than 39 students and 7 teachers from Oriire Local Government Area on 15 May 2026, with citizens continuing to demand swift and effective action to secure their release.
