Residents of Aduramigba community in Ido-Osun, Egbedore local government area of Osun State, took to the streets on Friday, blocking access roads to protest against incessant armed robbery attacks and poor electricity supply in the area.

The protesters barricaded the main road leading to the community, causing significant traffic congestion for motorists traveling in and out of the area. The community, though located in Egbedore local government, is situated close to Osogbo, the state capital.

According to the aggrieved residents, armed robbers had recently attacked the community, carting away valuable items including over 30 mobile phones, laptops, a car, and other possessions. The protesters linked the frequent robbery incidents to the persistent poor electricity supply in the area.

"We are tired of this situation. Today alone, armed robbers stole a car, over 30 phones, laptops and other items. They were knocking on doors, and since there is no light, it was difficult to trace them," said Kola, one of the protesters who spoke to journalists.

Police Response

When contacted, the Osun State Police Command's Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi, acknowledged the protest but claimed the recent robbery incident had not been officially reported to the police.

"There is a protest within the area, and it is based on robbery that has been reoccurring. The information I gathered from the DPO is that there was such a robbery incident reported two weeks back, but before then, there has not been such," Ojelabi explained.

He further stated that the previously reported incident from two weeks ago was still under investigation. "The recent one has not been reported. We are surprised to hear this. We are not aware of it. The only reported one occurred two weeks ago, and we are seriously on it," he added.

The police spokesperson urged the affected residents to lodge an official report at the police station to enable appropriate actions to be taken.

The protest highlights growing concerns about security and infrastructure challenges in communities around Osun State, with residents increasingly vocal about their dissatisfaction with both security arrangements and essential services like electricity.