Motorists and commuters along the busy Iwo Road interchange in Ibadan, Oyo State, faced severe disruptions on Monday after protesters blocked the area, causing a major traffic gridlock.

The demonstrators, who gathered at about 10 a.m., were led by the Take It Back Movement and demanded the release of schoolchildren and teachers abducted in May in Orire Local Government Area of the state.

The National Coordinator of the movement, Juwon Sanyaolu, said the protest was part of the group’s sustained efforts to secure the freedom of the victims.

According to him, the demonstration was “a continuation of actions the organisation has embarked upon since the abduction of children and teachers” in the local government area.

“We will continue to protest for the release of all abducted victims until they are free. We believe that government officials are in the comfort of their homes and offices while 46 innocent students and their teachers are languishing in the kidnappers’ den.

“We are demanding freedom for all captives in the North, South, West, and East of Nigeria,” Sanyaolu said.

He also criticised political leaders for focusing on preparations for the 2027 elections while insecurity continued to threaten the lives of Nigerians.

“We will not be sitting until 2027. By that time, we won’t even know how many people will still be alive.

“That is why we are here in the heart of Ibadan, Oyo State, where the abduction took place. The state and federal governments must act, or they will continue to witness mass action,” he added.

The protest triggered a heavy build-up of traffic around the Iwo Road axis, one of the busiest transport corridors in the state. Many motorists were forced to seek alternative routes, while some commuters trekked to their destinations before normal traffic flow was restored.