Asanike condemns bandit attack on Oyo national park, calls for stronger South-West security

Prince Kolawole Asatola Asanike, an All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain and philanthropist, has condemned the recent bandit attack on the National Park Service outpost in Oloka Village, Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State, which claimed the lives of several park rangers and sparked fear in neighbouring communities.

In a statement issued by his office, Prince Asanike expressed deep shock and sorrow over the incident, describing the killing of the rangers as a painful loss to their families and to the nation.

“Our hearts are heavy over this tragic incident. These men paid the ultimate price in the line of duty while serving their country and protecting our environment. Their sacrifice must never be forgotten,” he said.

The APC chieftain urged residents of the affected communities to remain calm and cooperate fully with security agencies, stressing that unity and vigilance are crucial at this time.

“While we mourn, we must also stay united and vigilant. This is not the time for panic, but for cooperation with security agencies so that justice can be served and normalcy restored,” he added.

Describing the attack as a stark reminder of the worsening security challenges in the South-West, Prince Asanike called for an urgent overhaul and strengthening of the region’s security architecture.

“This brutal assault on officers committed to protecting our forests and citizens is unacceptable. It underscores the urgent need for a more robust, intelligence-driven security framework across the South-West to safeguard lives and property,” he said.

He commended security agencies for their swift response, including the recovery of the remains of the slain rangers and the deployment of tactical and intelligence teams to the area, but warned that reactive measures alone were no longer sufficient.

“While I commend our security agencies for their prompt action, we must move beyond reaction to prevention. There is a clear need for improved intelligence gathering, better surveillance of forest corridors, and stronger inter-agency collaboration,” Prince Asanike stated.

He also called on both the Federal and Oyo State governments to invest more in the welfare, equipment and protection of frontline security personnel, particularly those operating in forest and border communities.

“Our security personnel must be adequately equipped, motivated and protected. When those defending us are vulnerable, the entire society is at risk,” he warned.

Prince Asanike said the tragedy should serve as a turning point in addressing insecurity in the region.

“We owe it to the fallen officers and to our people to ensure that such an incident does not happen again,” he said.