By Adeola Badru
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has imposed a statewide night-time ban on commercial motorcycle operations in the state, banning 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.
