By Deborah Nnamdi
Residents of Ila-Orangun in Osun State fled their homes after four teenagers allegedly inscribed the words “Bandit Today Today” on a residential building, triggering fears of an impending attack in the community.
The graffiti, discovered on a house wall in the Ajegunle area of Ila-Orangun, reportedly caused widespread panic, with many residents deserting the area over concerns of possible banditry.
Operatives of the Osun State Police Command later arrested four suspects in connection with the incident.
Confirming the development on Friday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, said the teenagers were taken into custody on allegations of conspiracy, conduct likely to cause a breach of peace, and public disturbance.
The suspects were identified as Idris Abubakar, 16; Abubakar Audu; Ahmed Abubakar, 19; and Mohammed Omotayo, 16.
According to Ojelabi, the inscription was written on February 18, 2026, and immediately heightened tension within the community and its environs, as residents interpreted it as a warning of a potential bandit attack.
“Immediately the report was received, operatives of the State Intelligence Department swung into action and, through diligent intelligence analysis, arrested four suspects based in the Ila-Orangun axis,” he said.
Preliminary investigations, the police spokesperson disclosed, indicated that Idris Abubakar admitted to writing the message, claiming he acted out of ignorance.
The police assured residents that proactive measures were taken to prevent any breakdown of law and order, reiterating their commitment to maintaining peace in the state.
The Command urged members of the public to refrain from acts capable of causing panic or apprehension and encouraged residents to go about their lawful activities without fear.
