Popular social media influencer and activist, Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), on Tuesday led residents of Oyo State in a protest demanding urgent government action against insecurity and the continued captivity of abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.

 

The protest came 32 days after the victims were abducted by suspected bandits on May 15, 2026, an incident that has continued to generate public outrage and concern across the state.

 

Marching alongside hundreds of residents, VeryDarkMan called on the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the victims and rid Oyo State of criminal elements responsible for the growing wave of kidnappings and attacks.

 

The protesters, who moved through major parts of Ibadan, were heard chanting slogans such as "Bandits Must Go" and "Leave Our Land" as they demanded improved security and immediate intervention from the authorities.

 

Addressing the crowd at the Iwo Road Roundabout, VeryDarkMan stressed the need for citizens to speak out against insecurity, warning that failure to act could embolden criminal groups and expose more communities to similar attacks.

 

He noted that the prolonged captivity of the abducted pupils and teachers underscores the urgent need for stronger security measures and coordinated efforts to combat kidnapping and banditry in the country.

 

The demonstration reflects growing frustration among residents over the worsening security situation and the delay in securing the release of the victims. Community leaders, civil society groups and concerned citizens have continued to call on the government to take decisive action to restore peace and ensure the safe return of those still in captivity.

 

The protest adds to increasing pressure on security agencies and government authorities to address the security challenges facing Oyo State and prevent further attacks on vulnerable communities.