Oyo Declares Curfew in 10 LGAs Around Old Oyo National Park Over Rising Insecurity

The Oyo State Government has imposed a curfew on 10 local government areas around the Old Oyo National Park in response to rising insecurity, kidnapping, and other criminal activities in the region.

The curfew will run daily from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. and will take effect from Wednesday, June 24, 2026. Authorities said the initial phase will last for 48 hours while security agencies carry out intensified operations.

Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, announced the decision in a statement issued in Ibadan.

Why Oyo Government Imposed the Curfew

The state government said it introduced the curfew to strengthen ongoing security operations around the Old Oyo National Park.

Officials said the affected areas have recorded rising incidents of kidnapping and criminal activity linked to forest corridors around the park.

The government said the restriction will help security agencies track and dislodge criminal elements operating within the forest and surrounding communities.

Affected Local Government Areas

The curfew covers 10 local government areas across the state.

They include Oriire, Orelope, Irepo, Saki West, Saki East, Atisbo, Itesiwaju, Iseyin, Olorunsogo, and Atiba.

Authorities urged residents in these areas to adjust their daily activities to comply with the new security directive.

Government Calls for Public Cooperation

Commissioner Dotun Oyelade urged residents to cooperate with security agencies during the operation.

He said the curfew forms part of wider efforts by the Makinde-led administration to restore peace in vulnerable communities.

He also called on traditional leaders, community heads, and transport operators to support enforcement.

Security agencies will intensify patrols and surveillance throughout the affected areas during the curfew period.

Security Context and Rising Concerns

Oyo State has faced growing security concerns in forest-border communities in recent months.

Kidnappers and armed groups have increasingly used forest reserves as hideouts, forcing authorities to expand military and police operations in affected zones.

The Old Oyo National Park area has become a major focus due to its difficult terrain and limited surveillance coverage.

What Residents Should Expect

The government said it expects full compliance from residents in the affected areas.

Security agencies will enforce the curfew strictly while monitoring movement during restricted hours.

Officials warned that the operation aims to restore safety and prevent further attacks on rural communities.

Broader Security Push in Oyo State

The curfew adds to recent security measures taken by the state government to address rising violence in rural parts of Oyo.

Authorities said they will continue to combine enforcement with intelligence-led operations to dismantle criminal networks operating in forest zones.

The government said it remains committed to protecting lives and restoring normal economic and social activity across the state once security improves.