No Bandit Attack in Imesi-Ile, Only Security Patrol — IPA Sets Record Straight

 By Kehinde Awosina 

The Imesi-Ile Progressive Association (IPA) has dismissed a viral video circulating on social media alleging that bandits invaded Imesi-Ile in Osun State on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, describing it as false and misleading.

In a statement issued by the association, IPA clarified that no bandit attack took place in the community, stressing that the content of the video did not reflect any real security breach.

According to the association, what occurred was a routine security sweep conducted by the Imesi-Ile Security Committee (ISC) in collaboration with local hunters, following a tip-off about possible suspicious movement within surrounding forests.

During the exercise, two young men suspected to be herdsmen were apprehended over allegations of cattle encroachment and destruction of farmlands. They were subsequently handed over to officers of the Nigeria Police Force at the Imesi-Ile police post for further investigation.

IPA emphasized that Imesi-Ile remains a peaceful community with a long-standing record of stability, noting that the town has enjoyed decades of relative peace since the end of the Kiriji War.

The association further referenced recent developments in the community, including the inauguration of an outstation and administrative building of a research institute on Tuesday, June 2, attended by prominent academic figures. It described the event as peaceful and well-attended, reflecting the calm atmosphere in the area.

Commending the vigilance of the ISC led by Chief Layi Abesin and his deputy, Chief Muyiwa Oguntoye, IPA assured residents and indigenes at home and abroad that adequate security measures remain in place in collaboration with government security agencies.

The association also urged members of the public and social media users to disregard unverified reports and refrain from circulating exaggerated or misleading videos, noting that official information should only come from the IPA, traditional authorities, or the Nigeria Police Force.

IPA called for continued cooperation among neighbouring communities in Obokun, Oriade, and Ekiti West LGAs to strengthen joint security efforts against criminal activity in the region.

The statement was signed by the General Secretary of IPA, Mr. Sola Oluwadare, and the President, Barr. Samuel Agbeluyi (mni).