The Oyo State Government has officially relaxed the dusk-to-dawn curfew previously imposed across ten local government areas bordering the Old Oyo National Park. The decision follows a series of intensified tactical security operations aimed at rescuing abducted school pupils and teachers in the state.
Curfew Lifted as Security Forces Tighten Grip
According to a statement released on Saturday by the State Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, residents in the affected communities have been advised to resume their daily businesses and normal activities. The state government assured the public that despite the relaxation of the curfew, security agencies are still actively combing the forests and surrounding areas to bring an end to the kidnapping menace.
“The government is closely monitoring the security situation, and efforts are ongoing to bring the kidnapping episode to an end,” Oyelade stated, emphasizing that the state’s primary focus remains the safe return of the victims and the restoration of absolute peace.
Background of the Curfew and Affected LGAs
The curfew was initially declared on June 24 for an immediate 48-hour period, running daily from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. This restrictive measure was subsequently extended by another 24 hours to give security personnel an uninterrupted window to track down the kidnappers operating near the Old Oyo National Park. The criminal elements had targeted teachers and students in the Oriire Local Government Area, sparking widespread concern.
The ten local government areas that were placed under the security restriction include:
- Oriire
- Orelope
- Irepo
- Saki West
- Saki East
- Atisbo
- Itesiwaju
- Iseyin
- Olorunsogo
- Atiba
Ongoing Government Assurances
While the lifting of the curfew brings relief to local traders and residents whose livelihoods were temporarily disrupted, Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy for banditry and abduction. Security agencies, including military and local vigilante groups, remain on high alert within the border communities to prevent any further security breaches.