Makinde Confirms Five Forest Guards Killed in Bandit Attack on Oyo Border Community
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has confirmed the killing of five officers of the National Park Service Forest Guard during an attack by suspected bandits in Oloka Village, Oyo State.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, the governor described the incident as a criminal assault on security personnel who were on official duty at the National Park Office in the community. He expressed deep sorrow over the loss and extended condolences to the families of the slain officers.
According to Makinde, preliminary findings by security agencies indicate that the attack was carried out as part of a cross-border operation by armed bandits. He said security agencies are already collaborating to investigate the incident and track down those responsible, while also urging residents to support ongoing intelligence-gathering efforts.
“Earlier today, there was a criminal attack by bandits at the National Park Office, Oloka Village, which resulted in the death of five National Park Service Forest Guard officers. This is a devastating loss, as they were killed in the course of carrying out their lawful duties,” the governor said.
Makinde appealed for calm, particularly among residents of Oriire Local Government Area and other border communities, assuring them that normalcy has been restored. He added that additional security personnel have been deployed to strengthen safety in the affected areas.
The governor also pledged that his administration would take decisive action to prevent a recurrence of such attacks, noting that authorities remain alert to the growing threat posed by armed groups exploiting forest corridors along border regions.
Reports of the killings earlier in the day had sparked fear and uncertainty among residents before the governor’s official confirmation. The incident adds to ongoing concerns over insecurity in parts of the country, especially in rural and border communities.
