Makinde Signs Executive Order, Restricts Night-Time Okada Operations Over Security Concerns

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has signed Executive Order No. 002 of 2026 to strengthen security, enforce vehicle registration compliance and improve traffic management across the state.

As part of the new measures, the governor announced a statewide restriction on the operations of commercial motorcycles, popularly known as okada, between 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m.

Speaking during the signing ceremony at the Governor’s Office on Friday, Makinde said the executive order was introduced to address growing security challenges and ensure strict enforcement of existing vehicle registration and traffic laws.

According to him, unregistered vehicles, motorcycles and tricycles have increasingly been used in criminal activities, making it difficult for security agencies to track suspects and investigate crimes.

The governor explained that the order provides a legal framework for the enforcement of vehicle registration requirements and traffic regulations, including sanctions against driving against traffic and other violations. He added that designated enforcement agencies have been empowered to arrest offenders and impound vehicles, motorcycles and tricycles found in breach of the law.

Makinde said those apprehended under the order would be prosecuted in line with existing laws, while seized assets would be handled through due legal processes.

The governor linked the security measures to recent incidents in the state, particularly the abduction of teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area, who have remained in captivity for more than 20 days.

“We are living through very trying times. Our teachers and pupils are still being held by terrorists, and our thoughts remain with them and their families,” he said.

He assured residents that his administration was working closely with security agencies to secure the safe release of the victims, stressing that the government had neither forgotten nor abandoned them.

Makinde urged residents not to interpret the government’s silence on rescue efforts as inaction, noting that extensive operations were ongoing behind the scenes.

The governor also called on citizens to support security agencies by providing timely information on suspicious activities, describing security as a collective responsibility.

“If you see something, say something, and authorities will do something,” he said, while reminding residents to use the state’s toll-free emergency number, 615, to report security threats.

He commended security agencies and the Amotekun Corps for their commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state, expressing confidence that continued collaboration would strengthen security and facilitate the safe rescue of the abducted schoolchildren and teachers.

Oyo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Abiodun Aikomo, said the order would be enforced by agencies including the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA), the Nigeria Police Force and other law enforcement bodies. He added that the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions would oversee prosecutions arising from enforcement activities to ensure transparency and accountability.