The Oyo State government has imposed a 16-hour curfew across 10 local government areas bordering the Old Oyo National Park, escalating security measures as 46 abducted schoolchildren and teachers remain in captivity more than a month after their kidnapping.
Governor Seyi Makinde approved the restriction, which takes effect from Wednesday, with movement prohibited daily between 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. for an initial period of 48 hours, according to a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Musibau Babatunde.
The curfew affects Oriire, Orelope, Irepo, Saki West, Saki East, Atisbo, Itesiwaju, Iseyin, Olorunsogo and Atiba local government areas, all of which share boundaries with the expansive Old Oyo National Park, a region security agencies believe is being used as a hideout by armed groups.
The move comes amid growing public anxiety over the fate of 46 pupils and teachers abducted during coordinated attacks on schools in Oriire Local Government Area. Governor Makinde has previously disclosed that intelligence reports indicate the victims are still being held within the national park corridor, where dense vegetation and difficult terrain have complicated rescue efforts.
Authorities said the curfew is intended to strengthen security operations, restrict the movement of criminal elements and support ongoing efforts to secure the release of the hostages. Residents have been urged to comply fully with the directive and cooperate with security personnel during the enforcement period.
The prolonged captivity of the schoolchildren and their teachers has sparked protests and renewed concerns over worsening insecurity in parts of south-western Nigeria, with families and civil society groups calling for intensified action to bring the victims home safely.
