Oloka Killing: Oyo Govt Arrests Three Suspects Over Killing of Five Forest Guards, As Makinde Visits Old Oyo National Park

…Announces ₦5m compensation, scholarships, road rehabilitation, military base proposed

Oyo State Government has disclosed that three key suspects involved in the killing of five National Forest Guards at the Old Oyo National Park have been arrested and are currently undergoing further investigation.

This was made known on Friday during an on-the-spot assessment visit to Oloka Village in Oriire Local Government Area by Governor Seyi Makinde, following the deadly attack on the forest guards.

During the visit, Governor Makinde announced that the state government would pay a compensation of ₦5 million to each of the families of the deceased forest guards.

He also approved scholarships up to university level for the children of the slain guards.

The governor expressed deep condolences to the affected families and the Oloka community, assuring residents that his administration would intensify efforts to strengthen security across the state, particularly around the Old Oyo National Park.

As part of immediate intervention measures, Governor Makinde promised to rehabilitate the road linking Ikoyi-Ile to Oloka under the Rural Access and Agricultural Market Project (RAAMP).

He also pledged improved telecommunication services through the installation of communication masts, the provision of boreholes, solar-powered street lights, and a sustained joint security presence in the area.

The governor further revealed plans to write to military authorities in Abuja, requesting the establishment of a military base in Oloka, to further enhance security in the community.

While reiterating the government’s commitment to safety, Governor Makinde noted that security is a collective responsibility and urged residents to promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies.

“I want to assure you that whatever is expected of the government to ensure your safety, we will do it,” the governor said.

“For the families that lost their loved ones, each will receive ₦5 million, and the children of the deceased will be supported with scholarships up to the university level.”

Earlier, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, CP Fatai Owoseni (rtd), confirmed the arrest of three principal suspects linked to the killings, noting that security agencies were working diligently to bring all those responsible to justice.

He commended the governor for his proactive leadership and continuous support to security operatives, assuring residents that criminal elements would not be allowed to operate in the state.

The governor later led community members and officials in observing a minute of silence in honour of the deceased forest guards.

Members of the governor’s entourage included top government officials, traditional rulers present included the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, the Onpetu of Ijeru, Oba Sunday Oyediran, alongside religious and community leaders.