Oyo Govt Imposes 16-Hour Curfew Across 10 LGAs Amid Search for Abducted Schoolchildren

The Oyo State Government has imposed a stringent 16-hour daily curfew (4:00pm to 8:00am) in 10 local government areas bordering the Old Oyo National Park as part of emergency security measures following the abduction of 39 schoolchildren and seven teachers on 15 May 2026.

The curfew, which is expected to last for 48 hours, affects the following local government areas: Oriire, Orelope, Irepo, Saki West, Saki East, Atisbo, Itesiwaju, Iseyin, Olorunsogo, and Atiba.

Authorities say the restriction is aimed at restricting movement in and around forest corridors believed to be used by the kidnappers, while security agencies continue coordinated search-and-rescue operations.

Meanwhile, reports circulating online indicate that local security volunteers, including members of the Iru Ekun Security Network led by Sunday Igboho, have been active in the area, reportedly using surveillance tools such as drones to assist in locating the abducted victims.

The government has urged residents in the affected areas to comply fully with the curfew directive, avoid unnecessary movement, and support ongoing security efforts to ensure the safe return of the victims.

Security operations are expected to continue until further notice as authorities work to track down the abductors and secure the release of the schoolchildren and teachers.