The Minister of Power, Mr Adebayo Adelabu, has condemned the attack on Old Oyo National Park by suspected hoodlums.
He also described the incident as, not merely an assault on a national asset but as a grave violation of “our homeland, our peace, and our shared heritage.
Adelabu’s condemnation is contained in a statement, issued by Mr Bolaji Tunji, his Special Adviser on Strategic Communication and Media Relations, on Saturday in Abuja.
The minister said that the attack and the killing of innocent forest rangers in Oloka Village, Ikoyi-Ile, struck a deep, personal chord.
“I condemn this cowardly act in the strongest possible terms.
“My thoughts, prayers, and deepest sympathies are with the victims, their families, and all communities across Oyo State affected by this tragedy,” he said.
Adelabu emphasised the significance of Old Oyo National Park, describing it as a symbol of “our natural legacy and a source of communal pride.”
He said: “Allowing such violence to happen in the park is an affront to every indigene of Oyo State.
“Security is the foundation upon which all progress is built; insecurity anywhere in Oyo State is a threat to development everywhere in the state,” he said.
The minister commended security agencies for their swift response to the incident and urged them to intensify efforts to apprehend the perpetrators and prevent future attacks.
“I commend the prompt action of our security agencies and urge them to deploy all necessary resources to track down those responsible, secure the area, and forestall further occurrences,” he said.
He called on residents to always remain vigilant and cooperate with security operatives to identify and confront security threats.
The minister urged the public to draw strength from the enduring Yoruba values of unity and courage.
“We must not allow fear to divide us or diminish the spirit of our communities,” he said.
The minister expressed confidence that with collective resolve and the support of the Federal Government, the state would overcome the challenge.
“Together, we will protect our land; preserve our peace; and continue to build a safer, brighter, and more prosperous future for Oyo State,” he said
