Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde imposed a 16-hour daily curfew across 10 local government areas bordering the Old Oyo National Park, effective from Wednesday, June 24, 2026, in a significant escalation of measures to support the ongoing rescue of over 40 schoolchildren and teachers abducted more than six weeks ago.
The curfew, conveyed through a memo signed by Secretary to the State Government Professor Musibau Babatunde and announced by Commissioner for Information Dotun Oyelade, runs from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. daily. The initial period was set at 48 hours, with continuation subject to security review. The 10 affected local governments are Oriire, Orelope, Irepo, Saki West, Saki East, Atisbo, Itesiwaju, Iseyin, Olorunsogo, and Atiba.
Boko Haram Using IEDs to Stall Rescue
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Saturday PUNCH had reported the previous weekend that Boko Haram terrorists holding the victims had planted improvised explosive devices across the park terrain and were frequently changing locations to frustrate rescue efforts. Governor Makinde had also confirmed that a Nigerian Army lieutenant was killed during rescue operations, underscoring the extreme difficulty of the terrain and the determination of the kidnappers.
The Oyo State Police Command separately dismissed viral social media reports that a traditional ruler in Oriire LGA had been invited for questioning, saying the claims were false and urged the public to verify information before sharing. Police also debunked reports that the abductees had been rescued, warning that false reports endangered ongoing operations.
Curfew Aims to Cut Off Bandit Support
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Security officials said the curfew was intended to cut off the logistical support networks that armed groups operating within the park relied upon from surrounding communities, including food supply, intelligence, and escape routes. Residents in the affected areas were urged to comply fully and to cooperate with security agencies. Furthermore, the Nigeria Union of Teachers rejected school resumption in Oyo until adequate security guarantees were provided. Consequently, the curfew represents the most drastic administrative security measure taken by Oyo State since the abduction crisis began in May.
