Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has signed Executive Order No. 002 of 2026, introducing stricter measures to strengthen security, enforce vehicle registration regulations and improve traffic management across the state.
The executive order, signed on Friday at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan, also imposes a statewide restriction on the operations of commercial motorcycle operators, popularly known as Okada riders, between 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m.
The development comes amid heightened security concerns in Oyo State, particularly following the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area, who have remained in captivity for more than 20 days.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Makinde said the executive order was part of efforts to close security loopholes being exploited by criminal elements and to strengthen law enforcement operations across the state.
According to him, intelligence and security reports have shown that unregistered vehicles, motorcycles and tricycles are frequently used in the commission of crimes, making investigations and arrests more difficult for security agencies.
“The purpose of this Executive Order is to ensure strict compliance with existing laws regarding vehicle registration and traffic regulations. It will also provide a stronger legal framework for enforcement agencies to effectively carry out their responsibilities,” the governor said.
He explained that the order empowers designated authorities to arrest offenders and impound vehicles, motorcycles and tricycles operating in violation of registration requirements and other traffic regulations, including driving against traffic.
Makinde noted that violators would be prosecuted in accordance with extant laws, while seized assets would be handled through established legal procedures.
Linking the new measures to the security challenges confronting the state, the governor said the painful experience surrounding the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire had reinforced the need for more decisive actions.
“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 with their families who continue to endure unimaginable pain and uncertainty,” he said.
The governor assured residents that the state government, in collaboration with security agencies, remains committed to securing the safe return of all abducted victims.
“As a government, we share in their anxiety and their hope, and we remain committed to doing everything within our power to secure the safe return of every one of them,” Makinde stated.
While declining to disclose operational details surrounding ongoing rescue efforts, he emphasised that extensive security operations were being carried out behind the scenes.
“I understand the frustration and concern of our people, but our silence should not be mistaken for inaction. Significant efforts are ongoing, and we remain hopeful of positive outcomes,” he added.
As part of the executive order, commercial motorcycle operators are now prohibited from operating between 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m. across Oyo State.
Makinde said the restriction became necessary after security assessments indicated that criminal elements often exploit late-night motorcycle movements to evade detection and carry out unlawful activities.
The governor called on residents to support security agencies by providing credible information on suspicious activities within their communities.
“Security is everyone’s responsibility. If you see something, say something, and authorities will do something,” he said, while urging residents to make use of the state’s toll-free emergency number, 615, to report emergencies and security threats.
He also appealed for vigilance, unity and cooperation among citizens, insisting that fear must not be allowed to undermine collective efforts to secure the state.
Makinde commended officers of the Nigeria Police Force, the Amotekun Corps and other security agencies for their sacrifices and commitment in protecting lives and property.
Earlier, the Oyo State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Abiodun Aikomo, explained that the implementation of the executive order would be coordinated by relevant agencies, including the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA), the Nigeria Police Force and other law enforcement bodies.
According to him, the agencies would submit periodic enforcement reports to the state government, while the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions would provide oversight for prosecutions arising from the implementation of the order.
Aikomo added that mechanisms had also been put in place to ensure transparency and accountability, including channels through which members of the public can report misconduct by enforcement officers.
Present at the signing ceremony were the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, Mr. Abayomi Fagbenro; Executive Assistant on Security, retired Commissioner of Police Sunday Odukoya; Chairman of OYRTMA, Major Adekoya Adesagba (rtd.); and heads of relevant security and road management agencies.
The executive order marks one of the most far-reaching security-related directives issued by the Oyo State Government in recent years as authorities intensify efforts to curb crime and secure the release of the abducted teachers and pupils from Oriire Local Government Area.
More Stories
56 Days in Captivity: How Oyo Pupils, Teachers Were Rescued as Eight Kidnappers Arrested
“A Commander Does Not Carry Camera to Battle” — Gani Adams Takes Swipe at Sunday Igboho
Circular Road Demolition: Ona Ara Property Owners Urge Makinde to Fast-Track Compensation Payment