One traveller has been killed and several others injured in a fresh attack by suspected bandits in Irepo Local Government Area of Oyo State. The incident occurred on Friday night, June 12, 2026, along the Igbeti-Kishi road.
Details of the Attack
According to local sources who spoke exclusively to Legit.ng, the victim has been identified as Moshood Kayode, popularly known as Kayode NEPA. The attackers ambushed a passenger vehicle around 9:30 p.m., opening fire on the occupants. Kayode was killed instantly, while several other passengers sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical attention.
Oyo State Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal, speaking to journalists on Saturday, June 13, claimed that the perpetrators of the attack had been apprehended. However, Legit.ng could not independently verify this assertion. Lawal is an indigene of Kishi, the area affected by the attack.
The Oyo State Police Public Relations Officer, Ayanlade Olayinka, declined to comment when contacted for confirmation.
Reactions from Political Figures
Former House of Representatives member Olatunbosun Oladele, who represents Irepo/Oorelope/Olorunsogo Federal Constituency and is the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the 2027 elections, expressed deep sorrow over Kayode's death. In a statement made available to Legit.ng on Sunday, June 14, Oladele described the incident as painful, unfortunate, and a major concern for residents of Kishi, Igbeti, Igboho, and the entire Oke-Ogun region.
“I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Mr. Kayode ‘NEPA’. My heartfelt condolences go to his family, friends, associates, and the entire Kishi community. May Almighty God grant him eternal rest and give his loved ones the strength to bear this painful and irreparable loss,” Oladele said.
The former federal lawmaker called on security agencies and the government to intensify efforts to safeguard lives and property in the area. He urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities by providing useful information to prevent criminal activities. “Security is a collective responsibility. I encourage our people to remain alert and vigilant at all times. If you see something, say something. Timely and credible information can help security agencies prevent crimes and protect our communities,” he added.
Rising Insecurity in Oyo State
The attack is the latest in a series of security incidents in Oyo State. In early January 2026, gunmen killed five National Park staff in the state. The fatal assault prompted a response from security agencies, with the Oyo State Police Command deploying tactical teams, Mobile Police Force, and explosive ordnance disposal units to the scene.
On Friday, May 15, 2026, terrorists affiliated with the Jama'atu Ahlis-Sunna Lidda'Awati Wal-Jihad faction of Boko Haram launched coordinated attacks on schools in Oriire Local Government Area. Armed hoodlums on motorcycles stormed Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community Grammar School, and L.A Primary School in Esiele, abducting pupils, students, and staff. Among those abducted was the vice principal of Community Grammar School, Alamu Folawe.
Police spokesperson Olayinka confirmed that an assistant headmaster identified as Adesiyan was killed during the attack, along with a motorcycle rider who resisted the attackers. The terrorists later killed one of the abducted teachers, Michael Oyedokun, and released a video claiming responsibility.
Government Response
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, on Friday, June 12, stated that his administration is doing its best to secure the release of the abducted schoolchildren and teachers. He revealed that the abductees are still being held within the expansive Old Oyo National Park and cautioned against the circulation of unverified information that could compromise rescue efforts.
The Oyo State chapter of the APC has criticised Governor Makinde over his remarks on the security situation, calling for his resignation. The APC accused Makinde of misrepresenting the constitutional role of state governors in addressing insecurity, following his claim that he is constrained because security agencies are under federal control.
