By: Sunday Ameh
Residents of Imafon, Igushin, and Ilado communities in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State on Saturday staged a protest against the worsening insecurity in their areas, barricading a major road and disrupting traffic.
The protesters, who gathered in large numbers, blocked the busy Shoprite junction in Akure, just a few metres from the state government office, expressing anger over what they described as incessant attacks, killings, and kidnappings.
The demonstration followed a series of violent incidents that have left residents in fear. According to reports, at least two persons were killed and several others injured in recent days.
Tension escalated on Thursday when suspected gunmen invaded Igushin community in a failed kidnap attempt, during which a poultry farmer and her daughter were shot dead. Less than 24 hours later, another attack occurred in Ilado community, where a young man was abducted and reportedly attacked while trying to escape.
Speaking during the protest, a youth leader, Kunle, condemned the persistent attacks and questioned the effectiveness of security measures in the state.
“We are protesting the incessant killings and kidnappings in Imafon, Igushin and Ilado. Just two days ago, a mother and her daughter were killed, and yesterday, another young man was brutally attacked,” he said.
He further criticised the utilisation of the state’s security vote, noting that residents have yet to feel any tangible impact despite the deteriorating situation.
“We want the government to rise to its responsibility. We have not seen any impact of the monthly security votes being allocated. We are tired of burying our people every week while those responsible for our safety appear helpless,” he added.
The protesters also lamented the absence of visible security presence in the affected communities, alleging that armed criminals operate freely, even within areas close to the state capital.
“These gunmen operate freely, even within the state capital, yet there is no visible security presence, no patrols, no intervention, and no results. We are asking, where exactly is the security vote going?” he queried.
Residents vowed to sustain the protest until decisive actions are taken to restore safety and protect lives and property across the communities.
Leave a Reply