Governor Makinde Confirms Killing Of Five Forest Guards In ‘Cross-Border Operation’ By Bandits In Oyo Community

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has confirmed the killing of five National Park Service Forest Guard officers following an attack by suspected bandits at the National Park Office in Oloka Village.

In a statement personally issued on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, the governor described the incident as a criminal attack and mourned the slain officers, who were killed while carrying out their official duties.

“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 of the lives of personnel in the course of carrying out their lawful duties. May their souls rest in peace,” the governor stated in a post on his X handle.

Makinde disclosed that initial findings by security agencies point to a cross-border operation.

“Preliminary investigations by the security agencies indicate that this was a cross-border attack carried out by bandits,” he said, adding that “security agencies are already working together to address this incident and seek the support of residents in the area to cooperate with them in their intelligence gathering.”

The governor further appealed for calm, particularly among residents of Oriire Local Government Area and other border communities, assuring them that additional security personnel have been deployed.

“Let me appeal to residents of Oyo State especially those in Oriire LGA and other LGAs along our borders, to remain calm as the security agencies have restored normalcy and deployed more personnel to the area. Our administration will leave no stone unturned to respond decisively to prevent a recurrence of such attacks,” he said.

The attack has heightened security concerns around border communities, where authorities have warned of incursions by armed groups exploiting forest corridors.

Reports of the killing of the forest guards earlier in the day, prior to Makinde’s confirmation, had caused uncertainty and apprehension. The incident comes amid rising concerns over insecurity in various parts of the country.