The Osun State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of four individuals over alleged conspiracy and conduct likely to cause a breach of peace and public disturbance in Ila-Orangun.
The arrests followed a graffiti incident that reportedly sparked panic within the community.
In a statement released on Friday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, the Command identified the suspects as 16-year-old Idris Abubakar, an adult, Abubakar Audu; 19-year-old Ahmed Abubakar; and 16-year-old Mohammed Omotayo.
According to the police, “the arrests were made as part of proactive and preventive policing measures aimed at maintaining public order across the state.”
The Command stated that the incident occurred on February 18, 2026, when the inscription “Bandit Today Today” was discovered on a wall belonging to a complainant in the Ajegunle area of Ila-Orangun.
Police said the message caused fear among residents of the area and neighbouring communities, with some reportedly leaving their homes over concerns of a possible banditry attack.
“Upon receipt of the report, operatives of the State Intelligence Department swung into action.
“Through diligent intelligence analysis, four suspects based within the Ila-Orangun axis were arrested,” the statement read.
Preliminary investigations, according to the Command, indicated that the first suspect allegedly wrote the inscription.
The police added that the suspect admitted carrying out the act, claiming he acted out of ignorance.
The statement noted that the case was being investigated as conspiracy and conduct likely to cause a breach of peace and public disturbance.
“The Command advises members of the public to shun any act capable of causing panic or apprehension in Osun State.
“Residents are urged to go about their lawful businesses as the police remain focused on sustaining the peace for which the state is known,” the statement added.