The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja, has called on the Federal Government and the Oyo State Government to tighten security around communities bordering the Old Oyo National Park, warning that stronger preventive measures are needed to stop future attacks.
The monarch made the appeal following the recent rescue of dozens of students and teachers who were abducted in Oyo State earlier this year. He stressed that securing vulnerable communities located near the national park should become an urgent priority for both levels of government.
Call for Preventive Security Measures
According to a statement issued through his media aide, Adeola Oloko, Oba Ladoja commended the successful rescue operation but said the government’s next focus should be preventing similar incidents from occurring.
He urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde to strengthen security surveillance and protection for settlements located along the boundaries of the Old Oyo National Park.
The traditional ruler also appealed for comprehensive rehabilitation and support for those affected by the kidnapping, noting that victims often face emotional and psychological challenges long after regaining their freedom.
Background to the Kidnapping
The security concerns stem from a major kidnapping incident that occurred on May 15, 2026, when armed attackers abducted 39 students and seven teachers from communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Reports later indicated that the victims were held inside or around the Old Oyo National Park before security operatives successfully secured their release.
The incident renewed concerns over the use of forested and remote areas by criminal groups, particularly in parts of southwestern Nigeria where expansive vegetation can make surveillance and rapid security responses more difficult.
Why the Old Oyo National Park Is Under Attention
For years, residents of communities surrounding the Old Oyo National Park have expressed concerns about security challenges linked to the vast forest reserve.
While the park remains an important ecological and tourism asset, its difficult terrain has also fueled calls for improved security coordination, including:
- Increased military and police patrols.
- Better intelligence gathering within border communities.
- Enhanced surveillance technology.
- Stronger collaboration between local communities and security agencies.
Security experts have repeatedly argued that protecting communities around forest reserves requires continuous monitoring rather than emergency responses after attacks occur.
Why This Matters
The Olubadan’s intervention highlights growing pressure on authorities to shift from reacting to kidnappings to preventing them altogether.
His recommendation reflects broader national concerns over the safety of schools, rural communities, and transportation routes, particularly in areas located close to large forest reserves that have previously been associated with criminal activities.
As investigations and security reviews continue, residents will be watching closely to see whether additional security deployments and long-term protective measures are introduced around the affected communities.
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