Bandits, Herdsmen Kill 9 in Oyo and Benue Attacks

Late Tuesday evening and early Wednesday in Nigeria brought fresh terror as armed groups struck rural communities in Oyo and Benue states, leaving nine people dead within a single day. The incidents, which occurred in a protected forest zone and an active farming settlement, deepened public concern over worsening insecurity across agricultural and conservation areas. Meaning that between 24 hrs Bandits, Herdsmen Kill 9 in Oyo and Benue Attacks.

The violence unfolded across two states hundreds of kilometres apart, yet both incidents followed a familiar pattern of sudden attacks, minimal warning, and devastating consequences for local families. Residents, officials, and community leaders confirmed the deaths and described fear, confusion, and grief in the aftermath.

Timeline and Locations of the Attacks

On Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at about 9:00 p.m., gunmen invaded the National Park Service office located at Oloka, within Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State. The facility lies close to the Old Oyo National Park, a vast forest reserve known for wildlife protection and eco-tourism activities.

Several hours earlier on the same day, at approximately 4:00 p.m., another violent incident occurred in Udeku Maav-Ya community, Mbakyol Council Ward, Turan District of Kwande Local Government Area, Benue State. The victims were farmers working in their fields during the harvest period.

Both attacks happened within a 24-hour window, raising alarm among security observers and residents who fear a widening reach of armed violence into productive rural zones. Read also Air Force Jets Hit Bandit Strongholds, Destroy IED Factories

Oyo Night Attack on National Park Facility

Residents of Oloka village reported hearing prolonged gunshots shortly after nightfall on Tuesday. Armed men reportedly entered the National Park Service compound from surrounding forest paths, taking advantage of the low visibility and limited manpower at the facility.

Five park operatives lost their lives during the assault, according to security sources and local authorities. Some workers attempted to escape through nearby bush paths, while others tried to alert colleagues and nearby settlements.

The Oyo State Police Command confirmed the incident and deployed tactical units, including mobile police personnel, to secure the area. Senior officers later arrived from Ibadan to coordinate ground operations and assess security gaps around the forest corridor.

Officials said the terrain made recovery efforts difficult, as thick vegetation and poor access roads slowed response teams. Injured personnel were taken to medical facilities in surrounding towns for treatment.

Benue Farmers Targeted During Harvest

In Benue State, the attack occurred while farmers were harvesting crops such as yam and grains. Witnesses said armed men believed to be herdsmen arrived on motorcycles and opened fire without warning.

Five farmers were killed during the incident, while others sustained injuries as they attempted to flee. Survivors described running into nearby bushes and riverbanks to avoid gunfire.

The chairman of Kwande Local Government Area confirmed the deaths and described the situation as deeply troubling, especially because the victims were engaged in lawful agricultural activities essential to local food supply.

Community leaders noted that the affected area sits close to border routes often used by armed groups, which complicates security monitoring and rapid response. And also many people are reacting to this headline too Unexploded Military Device Recovered in Zugurma, Niger State

Community Reactions and Fear

Families of the victims in both states expressed shock and grief. In Oyo, relatives of the fallen park operatives gathered near the forest boundary, awaiting official information and support. Many residents described the attack as unexpected, given the presence of security personnel in the park.

In Benue, fear spread quickly across neighbouring villages. Farmers suspended work in nearby fields, while some families relocated temporarily to safer locations. Local elders warned that continued violence could discourage farming and worsen food shortages.

Official Statements and Security Response

The Oyo State Police Command assured residents that investigations were ongoing and that patrols would increase around forest reserves and park facilities. Authorities said intelligence gathering had been intensified to prevent further attacks.

In Benue, local officials called for additional deployment of security forces to farming communities, especially during peak agricultural seasons when large numbers of people work in open fields.

Security analysts have repeatedly warned that forest zones and border communities require constant surveillance due to their vulnerability to armed movements.

Broader Security and Economic Impact

Attacks on farmers during harvest season threaten food security and household income across affected regions. Benue State, often described as Nigeria’s food basket, relies heavily on uninterrupted farming cycles.

Similarly, assaults on conservation workers undermine environmental protection efforts. National parks play a role in tourism, biodiversity preservation, and local employment. Violence within these areas weakens enforcement and exposes natural resources to illegal activities.

Related Background Reading

For broader context on rural violence and land-related conflicts in Nigeria, visit Security updates Nigeria

What Lies Ahead

Community leaders in both states have urged calm while calling for sustained security intervention. They stressed the importance of collaboration between residents and law enforcement agencies to share information and detect threats early.

As investigations continue, residents hope that arrests and preventive measures will follow quickly. Without decisive action, many fear that such attacks may become more frequent and more deadly.

The events in Oyo and Benue highlight the urgent need for improved rural security strategies that protect both lives and livelihoods across Nigeria.