Oyo slams curfew on 10 LGAs around National Park

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has announced an immediate curfew in 10 local government areas bordering the Old Oyo National Park, a region grappling with significant security challenges, including kidnappings. The curfew, which commenced Wednesday, restricts movement from 4 pm to 8 am daily and will initially be in place for 48 hours.

The decision comes in the wake of a disturbing attack on May 15, where 39 schoolchildren and seven teachers were abducted from three schools in the Oriire Local Government Area. These victims are reportedly being held hostage within the park's vicinity. The affected local government areas include Oriire, Orelope, Irepo, Saki West, Saki East, Atisbo, Itesiwaju, Iseyin, Olorunsogo, and Atiba.

State Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, stated that the curfew is a critical part of the state's ongoing efforts to tackle kidnapping and other security threats in communities around the park. Residents in the affected areas are urged to comply with the directive as security agencies intensify operations to restore peace and ensure the safety of lives and property.

This security measure is part of a broader response to the escalating crisis. Previously, the Chief of Defence Staff announced the deployment of special forces, drones, and spy aircraft to Oyo State. President Bola Tinubu also authorized the deployment of 1,000 forest guards to support state security and local hunters. Military troops have reportedly secured all exit routes into the extensive Old Oyo National Park, signaling a robust effort to rescue the hostages and apprehend the perpetrators.

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The curfew is part of the state’s ongoing efforts to tackle kidnapping and other security challenges in communities located around the Old Oyo National Park.