Violence Escalates in Oyo State as Gunmen Target Police Post
In a brazen assault that has heightened security concerns across southwestern Nigeria, armed gunmen attacked a police border post in Oyo State, resulting in the tragic death of Inspector Aliu Oluwole. The incident occurred at the Budo Masalasi Border Post, where officers were reportedly resting during the assault.
Details of the Deadly Attack
According to official reports from the Oyo State Police Command, the late Inspector Aliu Oluwole died while courageously attempting to repel the attackers. The gunmen managed to seize his AK-47 rifle loaded with 30 rounds of ammunition, with breach number 4516 recorded in the official report. Police sources indicate that some officers were resting at the time of the assault, with one victim reportedly found dead on a prayer mat.
DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the state Police Public Relations Officer, confirmed the tragic incident on Sunday, January 25, 2026. "Preliminary findings reveal that some of the attackers sustained gunshot injuries and are currently being pursued by security operatives," Olayinka stated in his official briefing to the press.
Police Response and Investigation
The Oyo State Police Command has launched an immediate manhunt and comprehensive investigation following the attack. Commissioner of Police has directed intensive operations to track down the perpetrators, with security patrols being intensified across the state.
DSP Olayinka described the attack as a heinous act and affirmed the police's unwavering resolve to bring those responsible to justice. "We remain committed to ensuring that those responsible for this crime are apprehended and made to face the full weight of the law," the police spokesperson emphasized during his statement.
Context of Recent Security Challenges
This latest attack comes just weeks after suspected bandits attacked and killed five forest rangers at the National Park Service office in Oloka community, located within the Oriire local government area of Oyo State. The consecutive violent incidents have raised serious concerns about security vulnerabilities in the region.
The pattern of attacks against security personnel follows similar tragic incidents across Nigeria:
- In Zamfara State, troops recently killed six terrorists during forest operations
- Suspected IPOB members attacked a police checkpoint, resulting in two officer fatalities
- Gunmen killed seven youths at a tin mining site in Plateau State
- In Edo State, gunmen ambushed quarry workers, killing a police inspector and injuring others
Broader Security Implications
The attack on the Budo Masalasi Border Post represents a significant escalation in violence targeting security infrastructure in Oyo State. Authorities have vowed to strengthen security measures and ensure that perpetrators face justice for what they describe as heinous acts against law enforcement personnel.
As investigations continue and security operatives pursue the attackers, residents remain concerned about the growing pattern of violence against both police and other security personnel in the region. The Oyo State government has reiterated its commitment to protecting citizens and maintaining law and order throughout the state.
