Oyo Government Declares Curfew in 10 LGAs Around Old Oyo National Park
The Oyo State Government has imposed a curfew across 10 local government areas surrounding the Old Oyo National Park as part of intensified efforts to combat insecurity and support ongoing operations against criminal elements operating within the forest reserve. The move comes amid growing concerns over kidnappings and other security threats linked to the park axis.
The affected local government areas border the Old Oyo National Park, a vast forested area that security agencies have identified as a hideout for suspected kidnappers and other criminal groups. The state government said the curfew is aimed at restricting the movement of criminals, improving surveillance, and assisting security forces in ongoing clearance operations.
According to the government, the decision followed intelligence reports and recent security developments within the park, including the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area. Governor Seyi Makinde had earlier disclosed that some of the abducted victims were being held within the Old Oyo National Park, prompting intensified rescue and security operations.
Authorities noted that the curfew forms part of broader measures introduced by the state government to enhance public safety and restore confidence among residents. The administration has recently rolled out several security initiatives, including regulations on local security groups and restrictions on night-time commercial motorcycle operations across the state.
Residents of the affected communities have been urged to cooperate with security agencies, comply with the curfew directives, and report any suspicious activities that could aid efforts to flush out criminal elements from the area. Essential service providers and emergency responders are expected to operate within guidelines issued by the authorities.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property, assuring residents that the temporary restrictions are necessary to achieve lasting peace and security in communities surrounding the national park. Security agencies have also intensified patrols and surveillance across the affected areas as part of ongoing operations.
