Fear and uncertainty have taken hold in Ikoyi-Ile, a community in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, after threatening messages believed to be from suspected bandits were discovered, prompting swift action from security agencies. The discovery sparked panic among residents after rumours spread that armed attackers were planning to strike the town. The Oyo State Police Command confirmed the incident on Saturday, noting that the messages had raised serious security concerns within the community. Ikoyi-Ile is located in the same local government area where five forest guards were recently killed near the Old Oyo National Park, a development that had already heightened anxiety among locals. Investigations showed that two separate notes were allegedly dropped at different sections of a building in the town, one at the front and another at the rear. Both messages reportedly warned of an attack planned for Tuesday, January 20, 2026. One of the notes, handwritten in Yoruba and unsigned, was reportedly titled “Lati Odo Bandit” and threatened that the town would be invaded on the stated date. The wording urged residents to prepare for the arrival of the attackers, using language described as hostile and intimidating. The second note, written in English, carried a similar warning. It claimed the writers had been “working” for three days and alleged they were sent by the government to Ikoyi-Ile, ending with a message telling residents to expect their arrival. Although the true origin of the notes and any confirmed link to bandit groups have not been established, their appearance has created widespread tension across the community. Reacting to the development, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, confirmed that investigations had commenced and security measures had been intensified. He disclosed that the individual who reportedly found the notes is currently being questioned. “The person who allegedly discovered the notes is presently undergoing debriefing, and the Command has commenced a comprehensive investigation to ascertain the origin and intention behind the messages. “The Oyo State Police Command wishes to inform members of the public that it has received credible information regarding a handwritten note, written in both Yoruba and English languages, allegedly dropped in front of a residential building in Ikoyi-Ile, Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State. The note is purported to have been authored by suspected bandits, threatening an attack on the Ikoyi-Ile community. “Upon receipt of this report, the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, CP Femi Haruna, PSC (+), immediately activated the Command’s intelligence, tactical, and operational response architecture. “The State Intelligence Department (SID), in close collaboration with tactical units, was directed to commence intensive debriefing of all persons connected with the discovery of the note, while operational assets were promptly deployed and repositioned within Ikoyi-Ile and its surrounding communities. “As part of deliberate and visible security actions, armed patrols, stop-and-search operations, intelligence surveillance, and strategic area domination have been significantly reinforced. “Police personnel are currently on 24-hour high alert, with sustained ground presence to deny criminal elements any opportunity to operate or exploit the situation. The Area Command has equally been directed to maintain constant supervision and continuous patrol coverage across the affected axis. “The Oyo State Police Command has launched a thorough and intelligence-driven investigation into the origin, authenticity, and intent of the said note. “The Command wishes to state unequivocally that every lead is being pursued, and no effort will be spared in uncovering the truth behind this threat and ensuring that any individuals or groups found responsible are decisively dealt with in accordance with the law.” The police assured residents that the situation is being treated with utmost seriousness and appealed for calm, stressing that security operatives remain fully deployed as investigations continue.
