Amid heightened security concerns, Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde, on Friday signed an executive order aimed at strengthening security, enforcing vehicle registration regulations and improving traffic management across the state.
The executive order No. 002 of 2026 came as another wave of grief swept across Oyo State on Friday following reports that one of the schoolchildren abducted by kidnappers, identified as Ahoro Esinele, has reportedly died while in captivity.
However, the information has not been officially confirmed by the Nigeria Police Force or major mainstream media organizations.
The report has been widely circulated on social media and has generated significant public concern and emotional reactions.
As part of the new measures, the governor announced a statewide restriction on the operations of commercial motorcycle operators, popularly known as Okada riders, between 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m.
The development comes amid heightened security concerns in parts of the state, particularly the continued captivity of teachers and pupils abducted in Oriire Local Government Area more than 20 days ago.
Speaking during the signing ceremony held at his office in Ibadan, Makinde said the executive order was designed to ensure strict compliance with existing laws governing vehicle registration and traffic regulations.
According to him, unregistered vehicles, motorcycles and tricycles have increasingly been used to perpetrate criminal activities, making it difficult for security agencies to track suspects and conduct investigations.
He explained that the order provides a legal framework for stricter enforcement of vehicle registration requirements and traffic laws, including sanctions against driving against traffic and related offences.
Makinde said designated enforcement authorities had been empowered to arrest offenders and impound vehicles, motorcycles and tricycles found to be in violation of the order.
He added that offenders would be prosecuted in accordance with the law, while seized assets would be handled through established legal procedures.
Linking the new measures to recent security breaches, the governor referenced the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.
“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 their families who continue to endure unimaginable pain and uncertainty,” he said.
Makinde assured residents that his administration remained committed to securing the safe return of the abducted victims.
“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,” he added.
The governor acknowledged the anguish being experienced by the affected families and communities, stressing that the victims had neither been forgotten nor abandoned.
While declining to disclose operational details for security reasons, he maintained that intensive efforts were ongoing and urged residents not to mistake the government’s silence for inaction
Announcing the restriction on commercial motorcycle operations, Makinde said the measure was part of broader efforts to curb criminal activities and enhance public safety across the state.
He also called on residents to support security agencies by providing timely information on suspicious movements and activities.
“Security is a collective responsibility. If you see something, say something, and authorities will do something,” he said, while reminding residents to make use of the state’s toll-free emergency number, 615, to report security threats and emergencies.
The governor urged citizens to remain vigilant, united and resilient despite current security challenges, warning against allowing fear to undermine social harmony and public confidence.
He commended security agencies and personnel of the Amotekun Corps for their dedication and professionalism in responding to security threats across the state.
Makinde expressed optimism that sustained collaboration among security agencies, community stakeholders and residents would lead to the safe rescue of the abducted teachers and pupils and further strengthen security in Oyo State.
Earlier, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Abiodun Aikomo, said implementation of the executive order would be carried out by relevant agencies, including the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA), the Nigeria Police Force and other law enforcement bodies.
He disclosed that the agencies would submit periodic reports on enforcement activities to the state government.
Aikomo added that 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.
Among dignitaries present at the event were the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin; the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Musibau Babatunde; Special Adviser on Security, Fatai Owoseni; Executive Assistant on Security, CP Sunday Odukoya (retd.); OYRTMA Chairman, Major Adekoya Adesagba (retd.); and other heads of security and road management agencies.
On the late school girls, information making the rounds online indicated that the young girl had reportedly been battling serious health challenges during her ordeal.
Reports suggested that her condition worsened while she remained in the custody of her abductors.
The heartbreaking development reportedly came to light after the kidnappers allegedly informed her family during a live online interaction that the child was no longer alive. The news has left relatives, friends, and concerned citizens devastated, as many had continued to hope and pray for her safe return.
Family members, especially her mother, have expressed profound sorrow over the reported loss. In an emotional reaction, she reportedly recalled that her daughter had not been in strong health even before the abduction. What began as an ordinary school day tragically ended with the child never returning home.
Observers and sympathisers have described the incident as a painful reminder of the dangers posed by insecurity and the devastating impact of kidnapping on innocent children, families, and communities. Many Nigerians have renewed calls for stronger measures to protect students and educational institutions from criminal attacks.
The report has also sparked prayers and appeals for the safety and release of other victims who may still be in captivity. Citizens across the country are urging authorities to intensify efforts to combat kidnapping and restore security in affected areas.
While awaiting official confirmation from security agencies and credible news organisations, many Nigerians continue to follow developments closely and hope for clarity regarding the circumstances surrounding the report.
As reactions continue to pour in, many have remembered Ahoro Esinele as a young child whose life was reportedly cut short under tragic circumstances. The incident has left a deep sense of mourning and renewed calls for justice, protection of schoolchildren, and lasting peace across the nation.
When contacted, the PPRO, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka said it was not true.
