Oyo State Gov. Seyi Makinde on Friday announced a compensation package of ₦5 million for each family of forest guards killed in a recent attack at Old Oyo national park.
Makinde disclosed this during an on-the-spot assessment of the attack site at Oloka village in Oriire Local Government Area. He also approved scholarships up to university level for the children of the slain guards, according to a statement by his special adviser on media, Sulaimon Olanrewaju.
The governor said the state would rehabilitate the road linking the Oloka community to Ikoyi-Ile under the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project to improve movement in the area. He also pledged to boost telecommunications services, provide boreholes and install solar-powered streetlights for residents.
Makinde said the government would sustain joint security operations to safeguard lives and property, assuring residents that his administration would strengthen the state’s security architecture and improve living conditions in affected communities.
He also disclosed plans to write to military authorities in Abuja to request the establishment of a military base in Oloka to further enhance security. However, Makinde stressed that security is a collective responsibility, urging residents to provide timely information to security agencies when they notice suspicious activities.
The governor commended security commanders for their support and commitment, and commiserated with the community and the families of the victims.
“I want to assure you that whatever is expected of the government to ensure your safety and security, we will do it,” Makinde said, adding that the loss was unfortunate and praying for strength for the bereaved families.
