A prominent governorship aspirant in Oyo State has issued a strong condemnation of the recent violent assault on farmers and park officials at the Old Oyo National Park.
Condemnation and Call for Justice
Chief Niyi Aborisade, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and a human rights lawyer, described the attackers as cowards and enemies of peace. In a statement released on Saturday, January 10, 2026, he commiserated with the families of those slain and injured in the attack on the National Park Service office within the park, located in Oriire Local Government Area.
"My heart goes out to the families of the innocent farmers and park rangers who were brutally murdered. I condemn this attack in totality," Aborisade stated. He insisted that the perpetrators must face the full wrath of the law and warned that failing to bring them to justice would embolden other criminal elements and shake public trust in the state's security framework.
A United Front Against Insecurity
The ADC leader called on the Oyo State Government and all security agencies to intensify efforts to track down and prosecute those responsible without delay. He stressed that the people of Oyo State have a history of resilience and would not surrender to fear or intimidation.
"The people of Oyo State will not give in to bandits. Those who think they can overrun our communities through violence will soon meet their Waterloo," he declared. Aborisade urged residents to remain calm but vigilant, emphasizing that unity is critical in overcoming the security challenges testing communities across Nigeria.
Collective Responsibility for Security
Aborisade outlined a multi-pronged approach to bolstering security. He called for traditional rulers, community leaders, and youth groups to collaborate closely with security forces by providing timely intelligence to prevent future attacks and dismantle criminal networks.
He acknowledged steps already taken by the state government but pressed for more action to protect vulnerable rural and forest communities. His recommendations included:
- Improved intelligence gathering capabilities.
- Better equipment for security personnel.
- Stronger collaboration between state and federal security agencies.
The governorship hopeful warned that unchecked insecurity threatens economic activities, especially farming, which is a major livelihood source in the state. He concluded with a message of hope, stating, "With unity, vigilance, and firm action by the authorities, peace will return fully to our land."
