Security in Oyo State was dealt a severe blow on Saturday, January 17, 2026, following a violent attack by armed men in the Ogunmakin area near Ibadan. The assailants killed a police officer and kidnapped a Chinese national.
Details of the Violent Incident
The attack occurred at the premises of the Aqua Triton Company located in Ogunmakin village. Armed gunmen stormed the facility, opening fire and causing chaos. In the process, a police officer attached to the location was shot and killed by the attackers.
The primary target of the assault appears to have been a foreign worker. The gunmen successfully abducted a Chinese expatriate from the company before fleeing the scene. The incident has sent shockwaves through the local business community and raised serious concerns about the safety of expatriates in the region.
Police Confirmation and Ongoing Response
The Oyo State Police Command has officially confirmed the tragic event. The police spokesperson, Ayanlade Olayinka, verified the details to the press on Saturday night, January 17. The confirmation came following initial reports gathered by journalists at the scene.
While details remain fluid, the police have assured the public that an investigation is underway. Security forces are likely conducting a manhunt for the kidnappers and their hostage, with efforts focused on securing the safe release of the Chinese national. The identity of the slain officer has not yet been publicly released pending notification of his family.
Implications for Security in Oyo State
This brazen attack highlights the persistent security challenges facing parts of Oyo State and Nigeria at large. The targeting of a corporate entity and a foreign national points to a calculated operation, likely aimed at securing a hefty ransom.
The killing of a police officer, a symbol of state authority, further underscores the audacity of the criminal elements involved. It raises urgent questions about the protection of critical business infrastructure and the safety of both local and international workers. Residents and business owners in the Ibadan metropolis and its environs are now on high alert, calling for enhanced security measures and patrols in industrial and residential areas.
As the situation develops, more information is expected from the Oyo State Police Command regarding the progress of the investigation and any potential leads in the case.
