The Ogbomoso First Group on behalf of its President, Architect Suara Sakiru has commiserated with the people of Ogbomoso, Orire Local Government Area, and the government of Oyo State over the recent bandit attack on forest guards at Oloka village, near the Old Oyo National Park, describing the incident as tragic and deeply troubling.
In a statement made available to journalists on Saturday, the group expressed sorrow over the loss of lives recorded during the attack, noting that the slain guards paid the supreme price while carrying out their lawful duty of protecting lives, public assets and Nigeria’s natural heritage.
According to the group, the attack has not only brought grief to the families of the deceased officers but has also instilled fear among residents of Oloka and neighbouring communities, many of whom now live in anxiety over the possibility of further attacks.
“The Ogbomoso First Group mourns with the bereaved families and the entire people of Ogbomosoland and Orire Local Government. This unfortunate incident is a painful reminder of the security challenges confronting rural communities, especially those close to forest reserves and national parks,” the statement read.
The group condemned the activities of bandits and other criminal elements, insisting that such acts of violence must not be allowed to thrive in Oyo State. It called on security agencies to intensify ongoing investigations and ensure that the perpetrators are apprehended and brought to justice.
While acknowledging the steps already taken by the state government and security agencies to restore calm in the affected area, the Ogbomoo First Group stressed the need for more proactive and sustainable measures to prevent a recurrence.
Among its recommendations, the group called for the establishment of permanent security outposts around forest corridors and border communities, particularly those adjoining the Old Oyo National Park. It also urged the deployment of joint patrol teams comprising the military, police, forest guards and local vigilante groups to strengthen surveillance and response capacity.
The group further emphasised the importance of community policing and intelligence gathering, noting that local residents possess vital information that can help security agencies detect and prevent criminal activities if properly harnessed.
In addition, the group advised the government to invest more in the welfare, training and equipment of forest guards and park rangers, describing them as frontline defenders against criminal infiltration through forest routes.
Beyond security operations, the group highlighted the need for long-term socio-economic interventions, including rural development programmes, youth empowerment and job creation, as part of efforts to reduce vulnerability to criminal recruitment and collaboration.
The statement concluded with a call for unity, vigilance and cooperation among residents, traditional institutions, community leaders and government authorities, stressing that peace and security can only be sustained through collective responsibility.
The group reaffirmed its solidarity with the people of Ogbomoso and Orire Local Government, urging them not to succumb to fear but to work closely with authorities to ensure lasting peace in the area.
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