The Oyo State Government has announced a temporary curfew across 10 local government areas surrounding the Old Oyo National Park as part of intensified efforts to combat kidnapping and restore security in affected communities.

According to a statement issued by the state government, the restriction of movement will take effect from Wednesday and will run from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. daily for an initial period of 48 hours. Authorities explained that the measure is designed to support ongoing security operations targeting criminal elements believed to be operating within and around the national park.

The decision follows growing concerns over the safety of residents after a major abduction incident that occurred in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15. During the attack, armed kidnappers reportedly stormed three educational institutions and abducted dozens of pupils and teachers.

Government officials disclosed that intelligence reports suggest some of the victims may still be held within forested areas linked to the Old Oyo National Park. Security agencies have since intensified search-and-rescue operations in an effort to secure their release and dismantle criminal hideouts in the region.

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The affected local government areas include Oriire, Orelope, Irepo, Saki West, Saki East, Atisbo, Itesiwaju, Iseyin, Olorunsogo and Atiba.

Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, stated that the curfew forms part of broader security measures aimed at addressing persistent threats posed by kidnappers and other criminal groups operating around the park’s extensive terrain.

He emphasized that the government remains committed to protecting lives and property while ensuring that security agencies are provided with the necessary support to carry out their operations effectively.

Residents in the affected areas have been urged to comply fully with the curfew regulations and cooperate with security personnel throughout the period. Authorities noted that restrictions may be reviewed depending on developments from ongoing operations.

The abduction that triggered heightened security concerns involved 46 victims, comprising 39 schoolchildren and seven teachers. The victims were reportedly taken from Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community Grammar School; and L.A. Primary School, Esiele, all located within Oriire Local Government Area.

The incident generated widespread concern among residents and stakeholders, prompting renewed calls for stronger security measures across communities bordering forests and remote areas.

Security experts have long identified the Old Oyo National Park corridor as a vulnerable zone due to its vast landscape and difficult terrain, which can provide cover for criminal groups. The latest government action is therefore being viewed as a strategic move to limit movement within the area while security operatives conduct targeted operations.

As the curfew takes effect, residents and community leaders are expected to work closely with authorities to ensure compliance and support efforts aimed at restoring normalcy. The state government has assured citizens that every available resource is being deployed to secure the safe return of the abducted victims and strengthen security across the affected local government areas.

The coming days are expected to be critical as security agencies intensify efforts to locate the hostages and prevent further criminal activities within the region.