Governor Seyi Makinde has imposed a statewide restriction on commercial motorcycle operations in Oyo State, prohibiting okada riders from operating between 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m. as part of fresh measures to tackle insecurity and improve public safety.
The directive is contained in Executive Order No. 002 of 2026, signed by the governor on Friday. The order also seeks to strengthen the enforcement of vehicle registration laws and traffic regulations across the state.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Makinde said the decision was informed by growing security challenges and the increasing use of unregistered vehicles, motorcycles and tricycles in criminal activities.
According to him, the absence of identifiable registration details has often hampered efforts by security agencies to track suspects and investigate crimes effectively.
The governor explained that the executive order provides a legal framework for stricter enforcement of vehicle registration requirements and traffic rules, including sanctions against motorists who drive against traffic and commit other offences that endanger public safety.
He said designated enforcement agencies have been empowered to arrest offenders and impound vehicles, motorcycles and tricycles found to be in violation of the order.
Those arrested, he added, would be prosecuted in accordance with the law, while seized assets would be handled through established legal procedures.
Makinde linked the new measures to recent security incidents in the state, particularly the abduction of teachers and schoolchildren in Oriire Local Government Area, who have remained in captivity for more than 20 days.
Describing the incident as deeply troubling, the governor said his administration remained committed to securing the safe return of the victims.
“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,” he said.
He assured residents that the government was working closely with security agencies to ensure the victims regain their freedom, stressing that ongoing efforts should not be mistaken for inaction.
Makinde said the restriction on night-time commercial motorcycle operations forms part of a broader strategy to reduce criminal activities, enhance surveillance and prevent criminals from exploiting the cover of darkness.
He urged residents to support security agencies by reporting suspicious activities and movements within their communities, noting that security is a collective responsibility.
“If you see something, say something, and authorities will do something,” the governor said, while reminding residents to make use of the state’s toll-free emergency line, 615.
He also commended security agencies and operatives of the Amotekun Corps for their efforts in maintaining peace and responding to security threats across the state.
Earlier, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Abiodun Aikomo, said the executive order would be enforced by agencies including the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA), the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant law enforcement bodies.
Aikomo added that enforcement agencies would submit periodic reports to the state government, while the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions would oversee all prosecutions arising from violations of the order.