Residents of Igbeti and Igboho, located in the Olorunsogo and Orelope regions of Oyo State, have raised concerns about bandits and kidnappers using the Old Oyo National Park as their hideout.
This alarming news surfaced during a visit by the Oyo State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Johnson Adenola, and some senior police officers to the areas of Igbeti, Kishi, and Saki on Friday.
Chairman of Olorunsogo Local Government Area, Mr. Qoseem Olayanju, represented by the Vice Chairman, Mr. Adetoro Adegbola, spoke about the growing security issues in the region due to the park.
He noted that Igbeti had been largely calm in the past but is now facing problems because of the criminals residing in the park.
Olayanju acknowledged the ongoing efforts of the police and security agencies but urged them to enhance their strategies by using drones and more advanced technology to drive out the criminals.
The traditional leader of Igbeti, Oba Bashir Abioye, expressed his support for the police and emphasized the need for more security personnel.
He stated that he believes in taking preventive measures to ensure community safety rather than simply responding to incidents after they occur.
In addition, High Chief Ebe Lawrence, speaking on behalf of Oba Joel Olalere of Igboho, highlighted that the national park presents dangers for local communities, as many bandits hide in the forest to carry out their crimes.
He praised the collaboration between the police and other security forces and also called for the use of drones to help in clearing out the troublemakers.
Chairman of Miyeti Allah in Igbeti, Umar Usman, thanked the commissioner of police for his visit, expressing concern about the negative image caused by a few criminals among Fulani herdsmen.
Usman stressed that not all herdsmen are involved in crime and urged law enforcement agents to take action against those who do commit offenses.
The state Commissioner of Police, Adenola explained that the purpose of his trip was to listen to the community’s concerns, understand their security challenges, and seek cooperation in addressing these issues.
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He reassured the residents that efforts would be made to improve security and that the police would continue to work with other agencies to bring peace to the area.
The police boss acknowledged that banditry and kidnapping are serious problems in Igbeti, Igboho, and nearby communities, largely due to the park’s presence.
Adenola mentioned that a recent police and military operation successfully neutralized two bandits and seized weapons.
He emphasized the government’s commitment to restoring peace and hinted at future operations to tackle the threats.
Later, the Commissioner and his team also visited the palace of Oba Khalid Oyedepo, the Okere of Saki, to rally support in fighting security issues.
