Civil society groups in Osun State have urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts to rescue all Nigerians currently in captivity and tackle the worsening security challenges facing the country.
The groups made the call during a Democracy Day rally held in Osogbo, where activists and student leaders marched through major streets of the state capital to draw attention to issues of insecurity, governance and citizens' welfare.
Participants in the procession included members of the Osun Civil Societies Coalition (OCSC), the Take It Back Movement, the Coalition Against Insecurity and Bad Governance, as well as student union representatives.
The rally moved through key areas of Osogbo, including Ayetoro, Igbonna, Olonkoro, Old Garage and Oke-Fia, before ending at the Olaiya Underbridge.
Addressing protesters, the Convener of the Coalition Against Insecurity and Bad Governance, Kola Ibrahim, decried the continued abduction of schoolchildren and teachers across the country, describing the situation as a serious threat to Nigeria's educational future.
He called on President Bola Tinubu's administration to prioritise the rescue of all abductees and strengthen security measures to prevent further attacks on schools and communities.
According to Ibrahim, Nigeria cannot afford a situation where children are discouraged from pursuing education because of fears of kidnapping and insecurity.
He expressed concern that while the country is already grappling with a large population of out-of-school children, those who are enrolled in schools are increasingly becoming targets of criminal gangs.
Ibrahim also questioned the effectiveness of government spending on security, noting that huge sums of money had been allocated to the sector over the years without corresponding improvements in public safety.
He urged authorities at both federal and state levels to provide greater transparency and accountability in the management of security funds.
Speaking at the event, Chairman of the Osun Civil Societies Coalition, Waheed Lawal, said the protection of lives and property remains one of the primary responsibilities of government.
Lawal called on security agencies to ensure the safe return of all kidnapped victims and take proactive steps to prevent future abductions.
He also expressed concern over the economic challenges facing Nigerians, particularly rising inflation and the increasing cost of living, which he said have worsened the hardship experienced by many households.
According to him, democracy can only be meaningful when citizens enjoy security, economic opportunities and improved living conditions.
The activist urged Nigerians to continue engaging in civic activities and demanding accountability from elected leaders, stressing that citizens have a constitutional right to seek good governance and better public service delivery.
The Democracy Day march in Osogbo was part of activities organised by civil society organisations across the country to reflect on Nigeria's democratic journey and call attention to issues affecting citizens.
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