By Adeola Badru
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has imposed a statewide night-time ban on commercial motorcycle operations in the state, barring okada riders from operating between 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m. as part of a broader security crackdown aimed at curbing criminal activities and enhancing public safety.
The restriction formed a key component of Executive Order No. 002 of 2026, signed by the governor on Friday to strengthen security, enforce vehicle registration regulations and improve traffic management across the state.
The move came amid growing security concerns, particularly the continued captivity of teachers and pupils abducted in Oriire Local Government Area more than 20 days ago.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Makinde said the measures were designed to address emerging security threats and ensure stricter compliance with existing traffic and vehicle registration laws.
According to the governor, unregistered vehicles, motorcycles and tricycles have increasingly been used to facilitate criminal activities, making it difficult for security agencies to track suspects and investigate crimes due to the absence of identifiable registration details.
He explained that the executive order established a legal framework for the rigorous enforcement of vehicle registration requirements and other traffic regulations.
These included measures targeting offences such as driving against traffic and other violations that posed risks to public safety.
Makinde disclosed that designated enforcement authorities have been empowered to arrest offenders and impound vehicles, motorcycles and tricycles found to be in breach of the provisions of the order.
The governor further stated that individuals apprehended under the executive order would be prosecuted in accordance with the law, while any seized assets and properties would be managed through established legal procedures.
Linking the measures to recent security challenges, Makinde referenced the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area, describing the situation as one of the most painful security incidents confronting 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.
He assured residents that his administration remained fully committed to securing the safe return of all abducted victims and was working tirelessly with relevant security agencies to achieve that objective.
“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 anguish being experienced by the affected families and communities, stressing that the abducted teachers and pupils had neither been forgotten nor abandoned.
While declining to disclose operational details for security reasons, he maintained that extensive efforts were ongoing behind the scenes and urged residents not to interpret the government’s silence as inaction.
A major highlight of the executive order is the restriction placed on commercial motorcycle operations across Oyo State.
The governor said the restriction became necessary as part of broader strategies to curb criminal activities, strengthen surveillance and deny criminal elements opportunities to exploit the cover of darkness.
He appealed to residents to support security agencies by providing timely and credible information on suspicious movements and activities within their communities.
He said security remained a collective responsibility that required the active participation and cooperation of all citizens.
“If you see something, say something, and authorities will do something,” he said, while reminding residents of the state’s toll-free emergency number, 615, for reporting security threats and emergencies.
Makinde also urged residents to remain vigilant, united and resilient despite prevailing security challenges, warning against allowing fear to erode communal harmony and public confidence.
He commended security agencies and personnel of the Amotekun Corps for their commitment, sacrifice and professionalism in responding to security threats across Oyo State.
The governor expressed confidence that sustained collaboration among security agencies, community stakeholders and residents would not only lead to the safe rescue of the abducted teachers and pupils but also further strengthen security across the state.
Earlier, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Abiodun Aikomo, said enforcement of the executive order would be undertaken by relevant agencies, including the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA), the Nigeria Police Force and other law enforcement bodies.
Aikomo stated that the agencies would be required to submit periodic reports on enforcement activities to the state government.
To ensure transparency and accountability, he said the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions would oversee prosecutions arising from enforcement of the order, while members of the public would be encouraged to report any misconduct by officials involved in its implementation.
