Governor, Seyi Makinde, has confirmed the killing of five forest guards
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has confirmed the killing of five forest guards during a security operation targeting suspected cross-border bandits operating within forest reserves in the state.
The governor disclosed this while addressing journalists, describing the incident as a tragic outcome of a coordinated operation involving security agencies aimed at flushing out armed criminal elements terrorising border communities in Oyo State
According to Governor Makinde, the forest guards were attacked during an encounter with bandits believed to have infiltrated the state from neighbouring regions through forest routes. He explained that the criminals launched a violent assault on security operatives stationed within a forest reserve, leading to the death of five personnel.
Makinde noted that preliminary intelligence reports indicate the attackers are part of a larger cross-border criminal network exploiting vast forest terrains to carry out kidnappings, armed robbery, and other violent crimes
The Oyo State governor condemned the killings, describing them as a direct attack on the state’s security architecture and a threat to national stability. He assured residents that the deaths of the forest guards would not be in vain, adding that security agencies have been directed to intensify operations across forest corridors.
“We will not allow criminals to turn our forests into safe havens. Those responsible for this heinous act will be tracked down and brought to justice,” Makinde stated.
He further revealed that additional security personnel and tactical units have been deployed to forest reserves and border communities to prevent further attacks
The incident highlights growing concerns over banditry and cross-border criminal activities spreading beyond Nigeria’s northern region into the South-West. Security experts warn that forests linking multiple states have become strategic hideouts for armed groups due to poor surveillance and difficult terrain.
Residents of affected communities have called on both the federal and state governments to invest more in forest security, intelligence gathering, and the welfare of frontline security personnel.
Abuja Affairs Insight
The killing of forest guards in Oyo State adds to Nigeria’s escalating security challenges and underscores the urgent need for inter-state and regional collaboration in combating banditry. As security threats continue to evolve, authorities face increasing pressure to secure forest reserves and protect communities nationwide.
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