NUJ Sounds Alarm Over Insecurity in Oyo, Demands Stronger Borders, Okada Profiling

The Oyo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called on the state government to take urgent and decisive action to stem the rising tide of insecurity, particularly in border communities, following recent violent attacks that have shaken parts of the state.

The call formed part of resolutions reached at the first congress of the newly elected NUJ leadership, chaired by Comrade Akeem Abas, held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at the Dapo Aderogba Hall, NUJ Press Centre, Ibadan.

At the congress, the union expressed grave concern over the recent bandit attack on the Old Oyo National Park at Oloka village in Oriire Local Government Area, which led to the killing of five forest guards. The NUJ extended its condolences to the bereaved families and the Oloka community, describing the incident as tragic and unacceptable.

The congress urged the Oyo State Government, in collaboration with security agencies, to immediately strengthen security architecture across the state. Key recommendations included tighter border surveillance, deployment of additional security personnel to remote and border areas, as well as strict profiling and regulation of commercial motorcycle (Okada) riders entering the state.

The union also charged state-owned media organisations to step up public enlightenment campaigns on security issues, with particular emphasis on the rising incidence of “One-Chance” crimes. Residents were further advised to exercise caution and avoid sharing sensitive personal information on social media platforms.

On internal union matters, the congress resolved to reinstate four chapels—32FM Chapel, New Media Chapel, Daar Communication Chapel and Ajayi Crowther FM Chapel—which were inaugurated but prevented from participating in the December 9 NUJ election by the immediate past administration.

It directed that the chapels be fully restored, while mandating the State Executive Council to monitor their activities in strict compliance with the NUJ Constitution and operational guidelines.

Meanwhile, the congress expressed dissatisfaction over the failure to recover the union’s estate funds amounting to ₦11 million, allegedly owed by Alhaji Taofeek Akeugbagold. Consequently, the NUJ directed its legal adviser to issue a final demand notice, granting the debtor seven days to refund the money or face legal action.