Oyo State Imposes Curfew Amid Rising Kidnapping Threats

The Oyo State Government has announced a dusk-to-dawn curfew affecting ten local government areas surrounding the Old Oyo National Park, effective from June 24, 2026, from 4 PM to 8 AM daily for an initial period of 48 hours. This decision, communicated by the state commissioner Dotun Oyelad, aims to intensify efforts to curb insecurity and kidnapping activities in the region.

The curfew is a direct response to a recent incident in the Oriir Local Government Area, where armed men attacked a school, resulting in the abduction of several pupils and a teacher, with one teacher confirmed dead. The victims are believed to be held within the vast forest reserve of the Old Oyo National Park, which spans 2,500 square kilometers.

Security agencies have been directed to intensify surveillance and enforcement operations in the affected areas during curfew hours, urging residents to comply fully with the directive to restore peace and ensure safety in their communities.