Residents of Saki West LGA, have largely complied with the curfew imposed by the Oyo State Government as part of efforts to tackle insecurity and criminal activities around the Old Oyo National Park.
Monitoring by ITV Online on the first day of the restriction showed that businesses closed earlier than usual, while motorists, traders, and commuters hurried to conclude their activities ahead of the 4:00 p.m. commencement of the curfew.
Major roads and public spaces witnessed a significant reduction in human and vehicular movement, with security operatives stationed at strategic locations to enforce compliance and maintain public order.
Many residents who spoke with ITV Online expressed support for the government’s decision, describing the temporary inconvenience as a necessary sacrifice to enhance security and safeguard lives and property. Although some business owners and transport operators lamented the impact on their daily earnings, they pledged their cooperation with security agencies.
At the time of filing this report, compliance levels remained high, with no major incidents of defiance recorded.
Speaking with ITV Online, the Chairman of Saki West LGA, Hon. Gbenga Akinola, urged residents to continue observing the curfew, which runs daily from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. He emphasized that adherence to the directive, issued by Governor Seyi Makinde, is crucial to maintaining peace, security, and public order, while appreciating residents for their understanding and cooperation.
The Oyo State Government recently imposed a 48-hour dusk-to-dawn curfew across 10 local government areas bordering the Old Oyo National Park to strengthen ongoing security operations against kidnapping and other criminal activities.