Seyi Makinde, governor of Oyo state, on Friday visited the Old Oyo National Park in Oloka village, Oriire LGA, following an attack that claimed the lives of five forest guards.
The governor was in the community to commiserate with residents and families of the slain officers, describing the incident as a criminal attack that must not go unpunished.
Makinde had said the attack was carried out by cross-border bandits.
He said security agencies have arrested three suspects believed to be directly linked to the attack and assured that they would be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
Makinde expressed condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased officers.
He announced that the state government would provide financial support of N5 million to each affected family, alongside scholarships for the children of the deceased officers, up to university level.
The attack, which occurred earlier this month, has heightened panic in the community, with reports of residents fleeing the area over security concerns.
Addressing the community, Makinde said his administration would take steps to strengthen security in the area.
He shared plans to write to the chief of army staff to consider the establishment of a forward operating base in Oloka, noting that the state government would provide the required support to make the base operational.
The governor also pledged to improve infrastructure and basic amenities in the community.
“We will work towards improving the amenities there by including the road under RAAMP as well as providing boreholes and solar lighting,” Makinde said.
In addition, Makinde said the state government would address poor telecommunications services in the area by supporting the installation of mobile network masts to improve communication and emergency response.
He assured residents that his administration remains committed to restoring safety and normalcy to Oloka and surrounding communities.
