Nigerian police have arrested seven suspects linked to a violent incident near Oyo National Park, authorities confirmed on Tuesday, 3 February 2026. The arrests follow an intensive investigation into the attack, which reportedly involved illegal hunting and confrontations between assailants and local residents near the park’s boundaries.
The Oyo State Police Command said the operation to apprehend the suspects was part of a broader crackdown on criminal activity in and around protected areas. Officers worked alongside park rangers and intelligence units to identify and detain individuals believed to be involved in the attack, which sparked concerns over both human safety and wildlife conservation.
The arrests demonstrate our determination to protect national parks, wildlife, and the communities that live in proximity to these protected areas, a spokesperson for the Oyo State Police said on 3 February 2026. “We will continue to pursue all leads to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice and that our parks remain safe for visitors and locals alike.”
Oyo National Park, one of Nigeria’s prominent conservation sites, is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, antelopes, and numerous bird species. In addition to its ecological significance, the park contributes to tourism and supports the livelihoods of surrounding communities. Security breaches such as the recent attack threaten both the safety of residents and the park’s biodiversity.
Authorities have since stepped up patrols, surveillance, and monitoring operations throughout the park. Rangers have been deployed in greater numbers, and police units are maintaining checkpoints along key access routes. Officials stressed that the integrated approach is intended to prevent poaching, illegal logging, and other criminal activities that have plagued national parks in the region.
Local leaders and community members welcomed the arrests, calling for sustained efforts to secure the park and protect surrounding villages. We rely on the park for tourism and the environment, but safety has always been a concern, said a community representative in the area. These arrests are a positive step, but on-going vigilance is essential.
Law enforcement sources noted that the suspects are being interrogated, and further arrests may be made as investigations unfold. Analysts point out that attacks on national parks in Nigeria often involve organised criminal networks seeking to exploit natural resources, making robust security measures crucial.
The Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening protection for all conservation zones, emphasising that safeguarding wildlife and supporting local communities are equally important. With the 3 February 2026 arrests, authorities hope to deter future attacks and reinforce the rule of law in areas surrounding Nigeria’s national parks.
