Tension is mounting in Ikoyi-Ile town, Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, after residents discovered handwritten notes allegedly from bandits threatening a fresh attack on Tuesday, January 20, 2026.
The warnings follow closely on the heels of a deadly assault last Tuesday, January 6, when gunmen reportedly killed five personnel of the National Park Service at Oloka village within the Old Oyo National Park, also in Oriire LGA.Two separate notes were reportedly found—one at the front and one at the back of a building in the community.
The first note, written in Yoruba and headed “Lati Odo Bandit” (From the Bandits), states in part:“A o wa ni January 20th, 2026. E duro de wa ati pe ki e mu ra fun wa le. A wa lati wa fun yin ni ibanuje ni orilede yin. Ni Ikoyi-Ile, Ile Oyo State.”
(Translation: “We will come on January 20th, 2026. Wait for us and prepare to give us what we want. We have come to bring you sorrow in your homeland. In Ikoyi-Ile, Oyo State.”)
The second note, written in English, reads:“Bandit information. See, now, Three days we work for you. We said you in Ikoyi-Ile are the government that sent us. Wait for us.”
While it is still unclear whether the notes are authentic threats from criminal elements or part of a hoax, they have triggered widespread fear. Many residents are staying indoors, limiting movement, and taking steps to reinforce security around homes and businesses.
The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed it is aware of the development. Spokesperson DSP Ayanlade Olayinka stated:“We haven’t received such a letter formally, but investigations have been launched immediately and it was brought to our attention.
"The individual who allegedly discovered the note is currently undergoing debriefing, while the Command has launched a full-scale investigation to determine the origin and intent of the note.
"We appreciate members of the public for their continued cooperation.”
Security observers note that Oriire Local Government Area has become increasingly vulnerable to violent crimes in recent months, with the proximity of the Old Oyo National Park making rural communities in the area particularly exposed.
Local leaders and vigilante groups have appealed to the state government and security agencies to immediately increase patrols, strengthen intelligence gathering, and deploy additional personnel to prevent a repeat of last week’s tragic incident.
As the investigation continues, residents of Ikoyi-Ile and neighbouring communities remain on high alert amid growing concerns over the deteriorating security situation in rural parts of Oyo State.
Authorities have urged the public to remain calm and report any suspicious activity promptly.
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