Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has announced a statewide restriction on commercial motorcycle operations, banning okada riders from operating between 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m. as part of strengthened security measures aimed at reducing crime and enhancing public safety.
The directive is contained in Executive Order No. 002 of 2026, signed on Friday, and is designed to reinforce security architecture, improve vehicle registration compliance, and streamline traffic management across the state. The decision follows rising security concerns, including the prolonged abduction of teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area, who have remained in captivity for over 20 days.
During the signing, Makinde explained that the policy targets emerging security threats and stricter enforcement of existing regulations. He noted that “unregistered vehicles, motorcycles and tricycles have increasingly been used to facilitate criminal activities,” making it harder for security agencies to track offenders.
The governor emphasized that the order provides a legal framework for enforcement agencies to act decisively on traffic violations and registration breaches, including offences such as driving against traffic. He added that security personnel have been empowered to arrest offenders and impound vehicles, motorcycles, and tricycles found in violation of the directive.
He also stated that anyone apprehended would face prosecution under the law, while confiscated assets would be handled through due legal processes. Referring to the Oriire kidnapping incident, Makinde described it as a deeply painful situation, saying, “For over 20 days, our teachers and pupils have remained in captivity in the hands of terrorists.”
He assured residents that efforts to secure the victims’ release were ongoing, even if operational details could not be disclosed. According to him, the government remains committed to ensuring that “every one of them” is safely returned, stressing that silence should not be mistaken for inaction.
The governor explained that the night-time motorcycle restriction was introduced to limit criminal mobility under cover of darkness and improve surveillance capabilities. He urged citizens to support security agencies by reporting suspicious activities and maintaining vigilance within their communities.
Makinde further reminded residents that security is a shared responsibility, encouraging them to use the state emergency hotline, 615, to report threats. He also appealed for unity and resilience while commending security operatives, including the Amotekun Corps, for their ongoing efforts.
He expressed optimism that continued collaboration between communities and security agencies would strengthen safety across the state and aid the rescue of the abducted victims.
Earlier, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Abiodun Aikomo, said enforcement would be carried out by agencies such as the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA), the Nigeria Police Force, and other relevant bodies. He added that they would be required to submit regular reports on compliance activities.
Aikomo also noted that the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions would oversee prosecutions arising from enforcement, while the public would be encouraged to report any misconduct by officials involved in implementing the order to ensure accountability and transparency.
