Popular social media activist and commentator Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), led a protest in Ibadan, Oyo State, over the continued captivity of schoolchildren and teachers abducted from communities in Oriire Local Government Area.
The protesters marched through parts of the state capital before converging on the residence of Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, demanding intensified efforts to secure the victims’ release. The demonstration drew youths, residents, and concerned citizens who expressed frustration over the prolonged abduction ordeal.
Addressing the protesters, Governor Makinde assured residents that his administration was working closely with security agencies to rescue the victims and bring the perpetrators to justice. He urged the public to remain calm and continue supporting ongoing security operations rather than taking actions that could jeopardize rescue efforts.
VDM, while speaking during the protest, called on government authorities and security agencies to act with greater urgency, stressing that the lives and welfare of the abducted children should remain a national priority. The protest highlighted growing public concern over insecurity and school-related kidnappings in parts of the country.
The demonstration ended peacefully after Governor Makinde’s engagement with the protesters, though participants maintained that they would continue advocating for the victims until they regain their freedom.