OYO STATE, Nigeria — January 6, 2026
Five officers of Nigeria’s National Park Service were killed on Tuesday night when suspected bandits attacked the Old Oyo National Park office in Oloka Village, Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, according to state authorities and the police. Security agencies have launched a manhunt as investigations continue.
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde said preliminary findings indicate that the attackers were cross-border bandits who entered the state and struck the park facility at about 9:00 p.m. He described the incident as a major loss and said additional security deployments have restored calm in the area.
The Oyo State Police Command said it has deployed tactical units, intelligence officers, and reinforcements to secure the park and nearby communities. Police Commissioner Femi Haruna led an on-site security assessment, while officers conducted forensic examinations and recovered the bodies of the fallen guards. Authorities said efforts are underway to identify and arrest those responsible, urging residents to provide credible information to assist the investigation.
Old Oyo National Park lies along forest corridors that have faced security challenges in recent years. Park personnel often operate in remote terrain, which officials say complicates surveillance and rapid response.
Five National Park Service officers were killed during an attack on the Old Oyo National Park office on January 6, of which the State and police authorities have confirmed the incident, and to that effect the Security forces have increased deployments and launched a manhunt around the location.
Some local reports claim the attackers used explosives and planned the assault in advance. Security agencies have not officially confirmed these details.
However, Governor Makinde said, “The security agencies have restored normalcy and deployed more personnel to the area.” Police officials reiterated their commitment to protect lives and property and to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Investigations and search operations remain ongoing. Authorities have advised residents in forested and border communities to remain vigilant, promptly report suspicious activity, and follow guidance from security agencies as efforts continue to prevent further violence.