Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has announced a statewide restriction on commercial motorcycle (okada) operations, limiting their activities to between 5:30 a.m. and 10:30 p.m. as part of efforts to strengthen security and combat crime.
The directive forms part of Executive Order No. 002 of 2026, signed by the governor on Friday to enhance public safety, improve traffic management, and ensure stricter enforcement of vehicle registration laws across the state.
The move comes amid heightened security concerns in Oyo State, particularly following the continued captivity of teachers and pupils abducted in Oriire Local Government Area more than 20 days ago.
Speaking during the signing of the executive order, Makinde said the measures were introduced to address emerging security threats, improve surveillance, and prevent criminals from taking advantage of nighttime activities.
According to the governor, restricting motorcycle operations at night is part of broader efforts to reduce criminal activities and improve the ability of security agencies to monitor movements across the state.
Makinde noted that unregistered vehicles, motorcycles, and tricycles have increasingly been used in criminal operations, making investigations difficult because such vehicles often lack proper identification.
The governor explained that the executive order provides a legal framework for the strict enforcement of vehicle registration requirements and traffic regulations.
Under the new measures, designated enforcement authorities have been empowered to arrest offenders and impound vehicles, motorcycles, and tricycles found violating the provisions of the order.
He added that individuals apprehended for violating the regulations would face prosecution in accordance with the law, while seized assets would be handled through established legal procedures.
Addressing the recent insecurity challenges in the state, Makinde referenced the abduction of teachers and schoolchildren in Oriire Local Government Area, describing it as one of the most painful incidents currently facing the state.
“We are living through very trying times. For over 20 days, our teachers and pupils have remained in captivity in the hands of terrorists. Our thoughts and prayers remain with them and with their families who continue to endure unimaginable pain and uncertainty,” he said.
The governor assured residents that his administration remains committed to securing the safe release of all abducted victims and is working closely with security agencies to achieve that goal.
“As a government, we share in their anxiety and their hope, and we remain committed to doing everything within our power to secure the safe return of every one of them,” the governor added.
Makinde acknowledged the pain being experienced by affected families and communities, stressing that the victims had not been forgotten.
While declining to reveal operational details for security reasons, he emphasized that extensive efforts are ongoing behind the scenes and urged residents not to mistake the government’s silence for inaction.
The governor also called on residents to support security agencies by reporting suspicious activities and movements within their communities.
He reminded citizens that security is a collective responsibility and encouraged them to make use of the state’s toll-free emergency line.
“If you see something, say something, and authorities will do something,” he said.
Makinde further urged residents to remain vigilant, united, and resilient despite the security challenges confronting the state, warning against allowing fear to undermine public confidence and community cooperation.
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