Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has issued a firm commitment to prevent any repeat of a deadly bandit assault that claimed the lives of five security personnel at a National Park office. The governor called for public calm while assuring that security forces are fully mobilized in the affected area.
Details of the Oloka Village Attack
The tragic incident occurred at the National Park Office located in Oloka Village, within the Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. Bandits launched a criminal attack on Wednesday, 7 January 2026, which resulted in the death of five officers from the National Park Service Forest Guard unit. Governor Makinde confirmed the details in an official statement released on Thursday, 8 January 2026.
He described the event as a devastating loss, stating, "This is a devastating loss of the lives of personnel in the course of carrying out their lawful duties. May their souls rest in peace." The governor emphasized that preliminary investigations by security agencies point to a cross-border attack executed by bandits.
Security Response and Government Assurance
In response to the violence, Governor Makinde disclosed that multiple security agencies are now collaborating to address the aftermath and pursue the perpetrators. He indicated that normalcy has been restored to the area following the deployment of additional security personnel.
"Our administration will leave no stone unturned to respond decisively to prevent a recurrence of such attacks," the governor vowed. He further appealed to residents, particularly those in border communities like Oriire LGA, to remain calm and support security operations.
Call for Community Cooperation
A key part of the strategy to forestall future attacks involves local intelligence. Makinde assured the public that security agencies are working together and actively seeking the support and cooperation of residents in the area for intelligence gathering. This collaborative approach is seen as vital for securing the state's borders and protecting national assets like the park.
The governor's statement underscores a dual focus: an immediate tactical security response and a longer-term strategy reliant on community partnership to enhance safety and prevent similar tragedies.
