Bandits Have Infiltrated South-West – Sunday Igboho Laments Killing of Three Farmers in Oyo Community

Yoruba rights activist Sunday Igboho has raised serious concerns over what he described as the growing infiltration of bandits into Nigeria’s South-West region, following the killing of three farmers in an Oyo State community.
Igboho, in a statement released on Tuesday, expressed deep grief over the incident, saying the victims were attacked while tending to their farms. He warned that the once-peaceful South-West is increasingly becoming unsafe due to the activities of armed groups operating in rural areas.
According to him, the killings are a disturbing sign that criminal elements, long associated with other parts of the country, have now extended their operations into Yoruba land. He said farmers in the affected communities now live in fear, with many abandoning their farmlands due to repeated threats, kidnappings, and violent attacks.
“This is no longer a rumour or isolated case. Bandits have infiltrated the South-West, and the killing of innocent farmers in Oyo is a painful confirmation,” Igboho said. “If urgent steps are not taken, food production and the safety of our people will be further threatened.”
The activist called on both the federal and Oyo State governments to strengthen security across forest reserves and border communities, which he said have become hideouts for armed criminals. He also urged traditional rulers, community leaders, and local vigilante groups to work together to protect lives and property.
Residents of the affected area confirmed heightened tension, noting that farmers now restrict movement to daytime hours, while some have completely stopped going to their farms. Community leaders appealed for increased security patrols and surveillance to prevent further attacks.
Security agencies are yet to issue an official statement on the incident at the time of filing this report. However, the development has reignited public debate on rural security, community policing, and the protection of farmers across the South-West.
The killings add to growing concerns over insecurity in Nigeria, as calls intensify for coordinated action to curb banditry and restore safety in vulnerable communities.