The Oyo State Government has lifted the curfew earlier imposed on 10 local government areas following the recent kidnapping incident involving pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.
The state Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, announced the development in a statement made available to journalists in Ibadan on Saturday, saying residents can now resume their normal activities while security agencies continue efforts to restore normalcy.
Government action and what led to the curfew
The recent curfew was imposed after gunmen abducted pupils, teachers and other school workers during an attack on a school in Oriire Local Government Area. The incident heightened fears among residents and prompted the state government to introduce emergency security measures to prevent further attacks and support rescue operations.
The restriction covered 10 local government areas, with security personnel deployed to strategic locations to intensify surveillance and track down the abductors.
The government had earlier restricted movement of motorcycles in the security-challenged areas.
Rising insecurity in Oyo, South-West
In recent months, Oyo State and parts of the South-West have witnessed increasing cases of kidnapping, armed attacks and other violent crimes. Farmers, commuters, students and residents of rural communities have repeatedly come under attack, raising concerns over the worsening security situation.
The abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire further heightened public anxiety, with many residents calling for stronger security measures to prevent similar incidents.
Several other kidnapping cases have also been reported across the state in recent months, forcing communities to demand more decisive action from security agencies and government authorities.
Government reassures residents
Announcing the lifting of the curfew, Oyelade thanked residents for their cooperation, patience and understanding during the restriction.
He assured the public that the government is closely monitoring the security situation and that security agencies remain on alert to ensure the protection of lives and property.
The commissioner also reiterated the government’s commitment to securing the safe release of the abducted victims and tackling criminal activities across the state.
Citizens seek lasting security
While many residents welcomed the lifting of the curfew, they continue to urge the government to strengthen security across vulnerable communities and major highways.
Citizens have repeatedly called for improved intelligence gathering, increased security patrols and sustained collaboration between security agencies and local communities to curb kidnapping and other violent crimes.
Many also expressed hope that ongoing rescue efforts would lead to the safe return of the abducted schoolchildren and teachers while restoring public confidence in the state’s security architecture.