Makinde Imposes 16-Hour Curfew in 10 Oyo LGAs as Security Operations Intensify

Makinde Imposes 16-Hour Curfew in 10 Oyo LGAs as Security Operations Intensify

The Oyo State Government has announced a 16-hour curfew across 10 local government areas bordering the Old Oyo National Park, citing heightened security concerns and ongoing operations aimed at protecting lives and property.

Governor Seyi Makinde approved the restriction, which takes effect from Wednesday, June 24, 2026, and will run daily from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. for an initial period of 48 hours.

The directive was contained in a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Musibau Babatunde, who explained that the temporary measure is designed to support security agencies in tackling criminal activities and restoring peace in communities surrounding the national park.

According to the government, the affected local government areas are Oriire, Orelope, Irepo, Saki West, Saki East, Atisbo, Itesiwaju, Iseyin, Olorunsogo and Atiba.

The administration said the decision followed an assessment of the security situation in the region, particularly around the Old Oyo National Park, which has increasingly become a hotspot for criminal activities due to its vast forest terrain.

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The curfew is expected to provide security operatives with unrestricted access to carry out surveillance, intelligence gathering and coordinated operations aimed at flushing out criminal elements operating within the area.

The latest development comes amid heightened concerns over insecurity in Oyo State following the abduction of teachers and pupils from a public school in Oriire Local Government Area. Governor Makinde had earlier disclosed that intelligence reports indicated the victims were believed to be held within the expansive national park, prompting intensified rescue efforts by security agencies.

Officials say the restriction on movement is a preventive measure intended to enhance public safety while ongoing operations continue across the affected communities.

Residents have been urged to strictly comply with the curfew and cooperate with security personnel deployed to enforce the order. The government also appealed for calm, assuring citizens that every effort is being made to protect lives and property.

“The curfew takes effect from Wednesday, June 24, 2026, and will run between 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. for 48 hours in the first instance,” the government stated, adding that the security situation will be reviewed before any decision is taken on extending or lifting the restriction.

The curfew is part of a broader security strategy introduced by the Makinde administration, which recently announced additional measures, including restrictions on overnight commercial motorcycle operations in parts of the state, to curb criminal activities and improve public safety.

Security agencies have been directed to ensure full enforcement of the order while allowing essential and emergency services to operate where necessary.

As residents adjust to the temporary restrictions, authorities have encouraged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or activities to the appropriate security agencies.

Makinde Imposes 16-Hour Curfew in 10 Oyo LGAs as Security Operations Intensify