Anger and frustration boiled over in Ayede Ogbese community, Ondo State, on Tuesday as residents staged a massive protest over escalating violence and kidnappings in the area.
The demonstration, which took place on March 3, 2026, saw youths, women and elderly residents barricade the busy Akure–Owo–Benin highway, bringing traffic to a complete standstill. The protest was triggered by the killing of a young man, Ben Daniels, who was reportedly attacked by gunmen on Monday night.
Carrying placards with inscriptions such as “Stop the killing of innocent souls,” “Justice must be served,” and “We are tired of dying in silence,” the protesters demanded urgent government intervention to address what they described as a worsening security crisis.
Eyewitnesses said the demonstrators blocked the highway for hours, stranding commuters and disrupting business activities as they expressed outrage over repeated attacks and kidnappings in the community. Residents say the area has witnessed a surge in violent incidents in recent weeks, leaving many living in fear.
Reacting to the development, Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa directed security agencies to intensify operations against kidnappings and killings across the state. He noted that some criminal acts were allegedly carried out with the collaboration of local informants.
The police confirmed the attack and appealed for calm, assuring residents that investigations were ongoing to track down the perpetrators.
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ondo State Council, also expressed concern over the rising wave of kidnappings and political tension in the state. The council commended the governor for recruiting additional personnel into the Ondo State Security Network Agency, also known as Amotekun Corps, but urged the government to implement more decisive measures.
Among the protesters’ key demands was the establishment of a permanent military checkpoint in Ogbese to deter further attacks and restore public confidence.
The state government reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, pledging to work closely with security agencies to restore peace and order in affected communities.
As security operatives monitored the situation, efforts were underway to clear the highway and restore normal activities. However, the protest underscores growing concerns over the deteriorating security situation in parts of Ondo State, with residents insisting that immediate and sustained action is required to prevent further bloodshed.