Heavy Security Deployed At Aso Rock Ahead Of Sowore-Led Protest

Security agencies on Thursday reinforced surveillance and access control around the Presidential Villa in Abuja following plans by activist and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, to lead a protest demanding the rescue of abducted schoolchildren.

A significant number of anti-riot police officers were stationed at key entry points to the State House, particularly around the main gate, where security personnel maintained strict access restrictions.

Only individuals with valid State House identification were allowed entry, while other visitors were turned back as authorities tightened security around the seat of government.

The development comes after Sowore announced that members of the AAC and the Take It Back Movement would converge at Eagle Square before marching to the Presidential Villa under the banner of #OccupyAsoRock.

According to the activist, the protest was organised to press for the immediate rescue of children and other victims kidnapped in different parts of the country, particularly in Oyo and Borno states.

Sowore argued that the Federal Government must prioritise the protection of citizens and ensure the safe return of those held captive.

“You cannot claim to be president of Nigeria and then refuse to do the job of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. We are not here to beg anybody,” he said.

“We are just asking people who claim they are elected to protect Nigerians to do their work. It would have been great if the number of policemen preventing this march could instead protect our schools.”

The activist also appealed directly to security personnel, urging them to recognise that insecurity threatens all Nigerians regardless of profession or status.

“Your children are also in schools. If the school becomes a ground for kidnapping, one day your children too will be kidnapped,” he stated.

The planned demonstration follows growing public concern over the abduction of pupils and teachers during coordinated attacks on schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on May 15, 2026.

The victims were reportedly taken from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School in Esiele and Yawota communities.

A separate abduction involving dozens of pupils from a school in Askira-Uba Local Government Area of Borno State was also reported on the same day, further intensifying national outrage over insecurity.

In response to the incidents, the Federal Government recently dispatched a delegation led by the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, alongside top security officials, to affected communities in Oyo State.

The government also announced the recruitment of additional forest guards and the deployment of a specialised rescue team to support ongoing efforts to secure the release of the abducted victims.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has commenced an indefinite strike in Oyo State, while solidarity demonstrations have been held across several states to demand urgent action from authorities.

As of Thursday morning, security operatives maintained a visible presence around the Presidential Villa while awaiting the outcome of the planned protest.