Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, has signed Executive Order 002 of 2026 on the Regulation and Enforcement of Vehicle Registration and Traffic Management, restricting the operations of commercial motorcycles, popularly known as Okada, between 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m. daily across the state.
The governor said the measure forms part of additional steps being taken by his administration to enhance security and curb criminal activities in the state.
Speaking during the signing ceremony at his office on Friday, June 5, 2026, Makinde explained that the Executive Order was designed to strengthen the state’s security architecture and ensure strict enforcement of vehicle registration and traffic regulations to safeguard lives and property.
According to him, the decision became necessary following the discovery that unregistered vehicles and motorcycles were increasingly being used to perpetrate crimes, including the recent abduction of teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area of Ogbomoso.
The governor assured residents that efforts were ongoing to secure the release of the abducted victims, stressing that the government was working closely with security agencies to ensure their safe return.
“For over 20 days now, our teachers and pupils have remained in captivity in the hands of terrorists. Our thoughts and prayers remain with them and their families. We remain committed to doing everything within our power to secure their safe return,” Makinde said.
He added that while the government continues to pursue the rescue of the victims, it must also take proactive measures to prevent future security breaches.
“It is within this context that we take another step towards improving security and public safety in our state,” the governor stated while formally signing the order.
Makinde reiterated that the abducted teachers and pupils had not been forgotten, assuring residents that security agencies were working round the clock to secure their freedom.
With the new order, commercial motorcycle operators are prohibited from operating between 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m. throughout Oyo State. The governor said the restriction was aimed at limiting criminal activities often facilitated under the cover of darkness.
He also urged residents to remain vigilant and support security agencies by reporting suspicious movements and activities through the state’s emergency number, 615.
“Security is a shared responsibility. If you see something, say something, and authorities will do something,” he said.
Makinde further called on citizens not to allow fear to divide them but to remain united, resilient and hopeful in the face of current security challenges.
The governor commended security agencies operating in the state for their dedication, sacrifices and prompt responses to security threats.
Earlier, the state’s Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Abiodun Aikomo, said the Executive Order was introduced to improve traffic regulation and enforce vehicle registration compliance.
Aikomo noted that many vehicles used in criminal operations often lack registration numbers, making it difficult for security agencies to trace offenders.
He explained that the order provides the legal framework for enforcing vehicle registration requirements, traffic regulations and related offences across the state.
The commissioner added that designated enforcement authorities had been empowered to arrest and prosecute violators, as well as impound vehicles found to be operating in breach of the provisions of the Executive Order.
The signing ceremony was attended by top government officials and security stakeholders, including the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin; Secretary to the State Government, Musibau Babatunde; and senior security advisers and commanders within the state security structure.
