A major protest erupted in Nigeria’s capital on Saturday as angry youths took over the Nyanya–Karu Bridge, demanding urgent government action over the continued abduction of schoolchildren and teachers across the country.
The demonstration, which caused severe traffic congestion along the busy expressway, forced military personnel to intervene in order to restore order and ease movement on the road.
Protesters chanted slogans such as “Tinubu must go” and “Bring back our children,” while carrying placards calling for the immediate rescue of victims currently held by kidnappers in different parts of the country.
Anger Over Rising School Abductions
The protesters expressed frustration over recent kidnappings affecting schools in Oyo and Borno States, insisting that the government had not done enough to secure the release of abducted pupils and teachers.
The demonstration was led by social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, who mobilised supporters under the Ratel Movement.
According to participants, the protest marks the fourth consecutive day of public demonstrations linked to worsening insecurity and repeated attacks on educational institutions.
Wider Wave of Unrest Across the Country
The Abuja protest comes shortly after similar demonstrations were reported during the Democracy Day celebrations, where citizens also voiced concerns over insecurity and mass abductions.
On May 15, armed attackers invaded three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, abducting about 39 students and seven teachers.
In a separate incident between May 13 and 14, gunmen stormed a primary school in Mussa village in Askira/Uba Local Government Area of Borno State, abducting 42 children.
These incidents have intensified public anger and renewed calls for stronger security measures to protect schools and rural communities.
Growing Pressure on Government
The latest protest highlights increasing frustration among citizens over recurring kidnappings targeting vulnerable communities, particularly schoolchildren.
While authorities continue to promise intensified security operations, protesters insist that urgent and visible action is needed to restore public confidence and ensure the safe return of all abducted victims.
