Makinde Seeks Army Base in Oloka After Attack on Old Oyo National Park

Seyi Makinde, governor of Oyo State, has called for the establishment of an army base in Oloka village, Oriire Local Government Area, following a deadly attack on Old Oyo National Park that claimed the lives of five forest guards.

The governor made the call on Friday during a visit to the affected community, where he commiserated with residents and the families of the slain officers. Makinde described the incident as a criminal attack that must not go unpunished, stressing that the safety of lives and property remains a top priority of his administration.

According to the governor, preliminary findings indicate that the attack was carried out by cross-border bandits who infiltrated the area and targeted the forest guards on duty. He said the nature of the assault highlights the need for a stronger security presence around the national park and its surrounding communities.

Makinde noted that his government would work closely with security agencies to ensure that those responsible are tracked down and brought to justice. He added that the proposed establishment of an army base in Oloka would help to deter future attacks, secure the park, and protect nearby villages from criminal elements.

The governor also assured residents that the state government would provide support to the families of the deceased forest guards, while taking steps to strengthen surveillance and intelligence gathering across vulnerable areas of the state.

Community leaders at Oloka welcomed the governor’s visit and appealed for urgent security intervention, saying the attack has heightened fear among residents and disrupted economic activities in the area.