Protesters from Ayede Ogbese community in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State on Tuesday barricaded the busy Akure-Owo-Benin highway over what they described as incessant killings and abductions in the area.
The protest followed the murder of a young man, identified as Ben Daniels, on Monday night.
Residents said Daniels was attacked by suspected gunmen while riding a motorcycle with one James Unekwu along Agunla Farm Road. Unekwu reportedly escaped, while Daniels’ body was later found by the roadside.
The demonstration comes amid a surge in violent attacks in parts of Ondo State. On February 18, gunmen killed Kehinde Jacob Faledon, the traditional ruler of Agamo community in Akure North LGA. Days later, suspected kidnappers abducted a couple in the Ilu-Abo community within the same council area.
During Tuesday’s protest, youths blocked the highway passing through Ayede Ogbese and displayed placards bearing inscriptions such as “Stop the killing of innocent souls,” “Justice must be served,” and “We are tired of dying in silence.”
The protesters accused the state government of neglecting their community and alleged that security operatives had failed to curb criminal activities in Akure North LGA.
Aiyedatiwa Orders Security Crackdown
Reacting to the development, , governor of Ondo State, directed security agencies to intensify operations against killings and kidnappings across the state.
In a statement signed by Idowu Ajanaku, the state commissioner for information and orientation, the governor said recent investigations indicated that some of the crimes were carried out with the collaboration of local residents.
“The government has directed all security agencies in the state to intensify surveillance and immediately clamp down on individuals or groups involved in these nefarious activities,” the statement read.
He added that the protection of lives and property remains the foremost priority of the Ondo State Government and assured residents that no group would be allowed to undermine the peace and stability of the state.
Police Confirm Attack
The Ondo State Police Command also confirmed the killing of Daniels.
Jimoh Abayomi, spokesperson of the command, said Unekwu is currently in protective custody while investigations continue.
According to Abayomi, preliminary findings revealed that Daniels and Unekwu were heading to a camp on a motorcycle when they were allegedly attacked by unknown gunmen.
“James Unekwu reportedly escaped, while the victim was murdered and his body dumped along the roadside. The escaped victim is currently in police protective custody as investigations continue,” he said.
The police urged residents to remain calm and refrain from blocking highways or engaging in actions that could disrupt public peace.