Toronto Rally To Demand Action Against Rising Kidnappings and Violence In Nigeria Following Abduction of 39 Children in Oyo State
As insecurity, kidnappings, and violent attacks continue to spread across Nigeria, concerned Nigerian-Canadians are preparing to hold a peaceful rally at Toronto’s Dundas Square to demand urgent action following the reported abduction of 39 children and seven teachers in Oyo State, Nigeria.
The rally, scheduled for Saturday, June 6, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, seeks to draw international attention to what organizers describe as a worsening security crisis affecting communities across Nigeria, including Yorubaland, where residents increasingly live in fear of kidnappings, armed attacks, and violent crimes.
Reports indicate that the victims, some as young as two years old, were abducted by armed kidnappers who are allegedly demanding millions of naira in ransom payments. Organizers also note that one of the kidnapped teachers was reportedly killed, further intensifying concerns about the safety of innocent civilians.
According to organizers, the incident is not an isolated case but part of a broader pattern of insecurity that has left families, students, farmers, travelers, and local communities vulnerable across several regions of Nigeria.
“Today, no place appears truly safe anymore,” said Iyameto Funmi Olumade, Spokesperson of the Nigerian-Canadian Concerned Parents group.
“Children, teenagers, students, and young people are increasingly becoming victims of kidnappings and violence.
We are gathering peacefully to demand action and to stand in solidarity with affected families.”
Community leaders are calling on the Federal Government of Nigeria, state governments, local authorities, security agencies, and the international community to strengthen efforts to protect lives and restore public confidence in safety and security.
“We cannot remain silent while innocent children are taken from their families and communities live under constant fear,” said Otunba Kemi Agbekeade. “Every child deserves the right to learn, grow, and live without the threat of violence or abduction.”
The peaceful gathering will include a moment of silence for victims of violence, prayers for the safe return of the abducted children and teachers, speeches by community leaders, and a public call for stronger security measures to combat kidnapping and violent crime across Nigeria.
Organizers emphasize that the event is non-partisan and non-violent, focusing solely on humanitarian concerns and the protection of innocent lives.
Event Details
What: Peaceful Rally – “Bring Back Oyo39”
When: Saturday, June 6, 2026 | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Where: Dundas Square, Toronto, Ontario
Dress Code: Black and White
Theme: End Kidnapping, End Violence, Protect Our Children
Note: Peaceful demonstration only. No violence. No political party symbols.
Media Contacts
Iyameto Funmi Olumade
General Secretary
Tel: 416-802-0468
Email: Funmiolumade@gmail.com
Otunba Kemi Agbekeade
Tel: 647-526-0527
Hashtags:
#BringBackOyo39
#EndKidnappingInNigeria
#ProtectNigerianChildren
#StopTheKillings
#PeaceForNigeria
