Ondo Students Stage Mass Protest Over Rising Insecurity, Shut Down Akure
Akure, Ondo State – Students from tertiary institutions across Ondo State brought business activities in the capital city to a standstill on Thursday, staging a massive protest against what they described as worsening insecurity and government inaction.
Led by the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) South West Chairman, Oluwarotimi Joshua, hundreds of demonstrators blocked major roads in Akure, paralyzing traffic for hours. The protesters carried placards with inscriptions such as “Enough of Kidnappings!” and “Aiyedatiwa, Secure Our Lives!” while chanting solidarity songs demanding immediate government intervention.
Students Decry Government Neglect
The protest was triggered by what students say is an alarming rise in kidnappings and violent crimes targeting scholars, particularly those participating in the Students’ Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES). Many recounted personal experiences of classmates being abducted while commuting to schools or industrial training sites.
“We can no longer move freely to attend lectures or practical sessions. Our governor has failed to protect us despite repeated promises,” said Joshua, addressing the crowd. “How many more students must be kidnapped before the government acts?”
Failed Dialogue Sparks Action
Protesters accused Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of paying lip service to security challenges while ignoring their welfare demands. According to student leaders, multiple peaceful engagements with the state government yielded no tangible results, leaving them with no option but to take to the streets.
“The governor keeps saying security is a priority, yet our campuses remain vulnerable. Our institutions are deteriorating, and policies affecting students are implemented without consultation,” said Adeola Ogunmola, a student union leader from the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA).
Police Intervention Meets Resistance
Efforts by the Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Afolabi, to disperse the protesters and clear roadblocks were met with defiance. Students stood their ground, insisting they would not back down until the governor addressed them directly.
“We are not here to cause trouble; we are here to demand our right to safety and education,” one protester shouted as police attempted to redirect traffic.
Government Yet to Respond
At the time of this report, Governor Aiyedatiwa’s office had not issued an official statement regarding the protest. However, security sources confirmed that emergency meetings were being held to address the students’ grievances.
The demonstration highlights growing frustration among Nigerian youths over insecurity and governance failures, particularly in states grappling with kidnapping epidemics. Analysts warn that without concrete action, such protests may escalate into wider civil unrest.
