Osun Police Arrest Four in Ila-Orangun Over Graffiti That Triggered Banditry Panic

The Osun State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of four suspects over an incident in Ila-Orangun that authorities said caused public panic and threatened peace in the community.

Police said the case followed the appearance of a graffiti message on a wall in the Ajegunle area on 18 February 2026. The inscription, “Bandit Today Today,” was interpreted by residents as a possible warning of an imminent attack.

According to the command, fear spread quickly after the writing was discovered, with some people in nearby areas reportedly leaving their homes over security concerns.

In a statement issued on Friday, Police Public Relations Officer DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, speaking for Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Gotan, identified the suspects as Idris Abubakar, 16; Abubakar Audu, an adult; Ahmed Abubakar, 19; and Mohammed Omotayo, 16.

The command said the arrests came through intelligence-led operations by officers of the State Intelligence Department, describing the move as part of preventive policing to sustain order across Osun.

Police said preliminary findings indicate that the first suspect wrote the inscription and later admitted to doing so. The suspect reportedly told investigators he acted out of ignorance.

The command said the matter is being investigated as conspiracy and conduct likely to cause a breach of peace and public disturbance.

Officials warned residents against acts capable of spreading fear or creating false alarms, stressing that misinformation and panic behaviour can destabilise communities even when no direct attack has occurred.

The statement added that the police remain focused on preserving the calm for which Osun is known and advised members of the public to continue lawful activities while security agencies monitor developments.

The incident has again highlighted how rumours, coded messages and unverified threats can generate real social disruption. Security analysts have repeatedly urged local communities to report suspicious activity early and avoid amplifying unconfirmed claims that may worsen public anxiety.

For now, police said investigations are continuing, and further legal steps will depend on evidence gathered from the suspects and witnesses linked to the graffiti incident.