Governor Seyi Makinde has introduced sweeping security measures in Oyo State following the abduction of teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area, signing a new executive order aimed at strengthening security, improving traffic regulation, and curbing the use of unregistered vehicles in criminal activities.
The governor signed Executive Order No. 002 of 2026 on Friday at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan, describing the move as a necessary response to growing security concerns across the state. The directive establishes a stronger legal framework for enforcing vehicle registration laws while granting security and enforcement agencies greater authority to monitor and sanction violations.
A major component of the order is the restriction placed on commercial motorcycle operators, popularly known as okada riders. Under the new regulation, commercial motorcycles are prohibited from operating between 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m. daily. The government believes the restriction will help reduce criminal activities often carried out under the cover of darkness and improve the ability of security agencies to monitor movements across the state.
Makinde noted that unregistered motorcycles, tricycles, and vehicles have increasingly been used by criminal elements, making it difficult for security agencies to track suspects and conduct effective investigations. He said the new order empowers designated authorities to arrest offenders, impound vehicles operating outside the law, and prosecute violators in accordance with existing legal provisions.
The governor linked the decision directly to the ongoing ordeal involving teachers and pupils who were abducted in Oriire Local Government Area and have remained in captivity for more than three weeks. He described the situation as painful and distressing for the victims’ families and the entire state.
“We are living through very trying times,” Makinde said, expressing solidarity with the abducted victims and their relatives. He assured residents that the government, in collaboration with security agencies, remains fully committed to securing their safe release.
While refraining from revealing operational details that could compromise rescue efforts, the governor stated that extensive behind-the-scenes actions are ongoing. He urged residents not to mistake the government’s silence on certain security matters for inactivity, emphasizing that strategic measures are being implemented to address the crisis.
The executive order also seeks to improve compliance with vehicle registration regulations, which authorities say are essential for effective crime prevention and law enforcement. Security agencies have repeatedly raised concerns that criminals often exploit unregistered vehicles and motorcycles to evade detection after committing offences.
In addition to the restrictions, Makinde called on citizens to actively support security agencies by reporting suspicious activities and movements. He encouraged residents to utilize the state’s toll-free emergency line, 615, stressing that public vigilance remains a critical component of community security.
The governor further appealed for unity and resilience among residents, warning against allowing fear and insecurity to disrupt social harmony. He emphasized that safeguarding lives and property is a shared responsibility requiring cooperation between government institutions, security agencies, traditional leaders, community stakeholders, and the public.
Makinde also praised personnel of the Amotekun Corps and other security agencies for their continued efforts in combating crime and maintaining order across the state. He expressed confidence that stronger collaboration among all stakeholders would not only facilitate the rescue of the abducted teachers and pupils but also enhance long-term security throughout Oyo State.
Security analysts say the latest measures reflect a growing trend among state governments seeking tighter regulation of transportation systems as part of broader strategies to combat kidnapping, banditry, and other violent crimes. While some stakeholders may raise concerns about the impact of the restrictions on commercial motorcycle operators and commuters, authorities insist that the measures are necessary to protect lives and restore public confidence in the state’s security architecture.
The executive order marks one of the most significant security policy responses by the Oyo State Government since the abduction incident and signals a more aggressive approach to tackling crime and strengthening surveillance across the state.
