‎Four arrested in Osun after bandit scare triggers panic

February 28, 2026: Osogbo — Four people have been arrested by the Osun State Police Command in connection with a panic that swept through part of Ila-Orangun earlier this month after a wall inscription raised fears of an imminent bandit attack.
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‎The suspects — identified as 16-year-old Idris Abubakar, Abubakar Audu, 19-year-old Ahmed Abubakar and 16-year-old Mohammed Omotayo — were taken into custody for alleged conspiracy and actions likely to cause a breach of peace, the police said.
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‎According to a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi, the incident happened on February 18, 2026, when the phrase “BANDIT TODAY TODAY” was found painted on a wall in the Ajegunle area of Ilu-Orangun. The message sparked alarm among residents, some of whom fled their homes in fear of banditry.
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‎“On receipt of the report, operatives of the State Intelligence Department promptly responded,” Ojelabi said, adding that analysis of intelligence led to the suspects’ arrest.
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‎Preliminary investigations revealed that the first suspect admitted writing the words, claiming he acted out of ignorance, the police spokesman said.
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‎The police urged members of the public to avoid actions that could unnecessarily trigger fear or disruption in their communities and encouraged residents to continue with their lawful activities.
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