Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has issued a strong appeal for residents to remain calm following a devastating bandit assault on a National Park office that claimed the lives of five security personnel.
Deadly Assault on Park Officials
The violent incident occurred on Wednesday, 7 January 2026, at the National Park Office located in Oloka Village, Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. According to a statement released by the governor, the attack resulted in the tragic death of five National Park Service Forest Guard Officers.
Governor Makinde described the event as a devastating loss of lives of personnel who were simply carrying out their lawful duties. He extended his condolences, stating, “May their souls rest in peace.”
Security Response and Preliminary Findings
Preliminary investigations conducted by security agencies point to a cross-border attack executed by bandits. In response to the crisis, security forces have moved swiftly to restore normalcy in the affected area.
More personnel have been deployed to Oriire LGA and other border communities to bolster security and prevent further violence. The agencies are also collaborating and actively seeking intelligence from residents to aid their investigation and operational efforts.
Governor Makinde assured the public of his administration's resolve, declaring, “Our administration will leave no stone unturned to respond decisively to prevent a recurrence of such attacks.” He specifically urged residents in the border regions to stay calm and cooperate with security operatives.
ADC Opens Door to Makinde Amid Defection Rumours
In a related political development, stakeholders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Oyo State have commented on rising speculation about Governor Makinde's potential defection to their party.
A prominent party chieftain, Mrs. Bolanle Sarumi (Basa), stated that the ADC is willing to welcome the governor and other notable political figures. However, she set a clear condition: they must embrace the party's core ideology of fairness, inclusiveness, and respect for internal democracy.
“We are a party that respects the rule of law and welcomes everybody,” Sarumi said. “However, the ADC is built on a strong ideological foundation. It is not a platform for domination, imposition or political high-handedness.”
Addressing the rumours directly, she noted that while the reports are unconfirmed, Governor Makinde would be received warmly if he chose to join. She reiterated, “If it is true that Governor Makinde intends to join our great party, he is welcome... But he must understand that the ADC operates on a clear ideology of fairness and equity.”
