Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, on Friday signed Executive Order No. 002 of 2026 aimed at strengthening security, enforcing vehicle registration regulations and improving traffic management across the state, while announcing a statewide ban on commercial motorcycle operations between 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m.
The governor unveiled the new measures during the signing ceremony held at his office on Friday, June 5, stating that the executive order would ensure strict compliance with existing laws governing vehicle registration and road traffic regulations. He noted that unregistered vehicles, motorcycles and tricycles have increasingly been used in the commission of crimes, making it difficult for security agencies to trace offenders.
According to Makinde, the order provides a legal framework for enforcing vehicle registration requirements and other traffic laws, including sanctions against driving against traffic and related offences. He added that designated enforcement agencies have been empowered to arrest offenders and impound vehicles, motorcycles and tricycles found violating the provisions of the order.
The governor explained that offenders apprehended under the executive order would be prosecuted in accordance with the law, while seized assets and properties would be handled through established legal procedures.
Linking the new directive to recent security challenges in the state, Makinde referenced the continued captivity of teachers and pupils abducted in Oriire Local Government Area over 20 days ago. He said the painful incident had reinforced the need for stronger security measures across Oyo State.
“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 their families who continue to endure unimaginable pain and uncertainty,” the governor said.
He assured residents that his administration remained committed to securing the safe return of the victims and was working closely with security agencies to achieve that objective.
“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,” he added.
Makinde emphasized that the abducted teachers and pupils had neither been forgotten nor abandoned, stressing that extensive rescue efforts were ongoing behind the scenes. He urged residents not to mistake the government’s silence for inaction, noting that operational details could not be disclosed for security reasons.
A major highlight of the executive order is the restriction on commercial motorcycle operators, popularly known as Okada riders. Under the new directive, commercial motorcycles are prohibited from operating anywhere in Oyo State between 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m. daily as part of efforts to curb criminal activities and enhance public safety.
The governor called on residents to support security agencies by providing timely information on suspicious movements and activities, reiterating that security remains a collective responsibility.
“If you see something, say something, and authorities will do something,” he said, while reminding residents to be vigilant.