Oyo govt denies bandits’ presence in Ogbomoso-Iseyin axis

By Adejayan Gbenga 

The Oyo State Government has refuted reports alleging the presence of suspected gunmen or bandits along the Ogbomoso-Iseyin axis, particularly around the Adebayo Alao-Akala Highway.

The government described the claims as false, misleading, and capable of causing unnecessary panic among residents.

In a statement issued by the Office of the Special Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde on Security Matters, the state clarified that the convoy sighted in the area consisted of security operatives on official duty.

According to the statement, the team was led by the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, alongside the Special Adviser on Security Matters, Abayomi Fagbenro-Bibire, during a security assessment visit to Yawota and Elesinle communities. The visit was reportedly carried out in collaboration with the Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, as part of ongoing security interventions in affected areas.

The government explained that the exercise was aimed at strengthening coordination and engaging communities following recent security concerns, assuring residents that security agencies remain active in rescue operations and efforts to restore peace and stability in the area.

The statement also urged the public to avoid spreading unverified information and to rely only on official sources for updates while reaffirming the government’s commitment, alongside security agencies, to protecting lives and property across the state.