Protesters Block Ondo Highway Over Rising Kidnappings

On Tuesday, protesters blocked the Akure-Owo-Benin highway in Ondo State, reacting to a surge in kidnappings and violence in the area. This unrest was sparked by the murder of a young man, Ben Daniel, who was reportedly attacked while riding a motorcycle with James Unekwu.

Daniel's body was later discovered on the roadside. The protests followed a series of violent incidents, including the killing of traditional ruler Kehind Jacob in February and the suspected kidnapping of a couple in the Ilu Abo community.

During the protests, local youth accused the state government of neglect and alleged that security agencies had failed to contain criminal activities. In response, Governor Lucki Aiyedatiwa directed security agencies to intensify operations against kidnappers and killers.

A statement signed by Commissioner Idowu Ajanaku indicated that the government would investigate the crimes and assured residents of strengthened security measures. Jimoh Abayomi, spokesperson for the Ondo State Police Command, confirmed the attack that led to Daniel's death.