Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has banned commercial motorcycles from operating between 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m. statewide.
He signed Executive Order No. 002 of 2026 on Friday, citing rising insecurity over 20 days after teachers and pupils were kidnapped in Oriire Local Government Area
The order also tightens vehicle registration and traffic rules to strengthen security across Oyo.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Makinde explained that the executive order was designed to ensure strict compliance with existing laws governing vehicle registration and traffic regulations.
According to him, unregistered vehicles, motorcycles and tricycles have increasingly been used to perpetrate criminal activities, making it difficult for security agencies to track suspects and conduct investigations.
He said that the order provides a legal framework for stricter enforcement of vehicle registration requirements and traffic laws, including sanctions against driving against traffic and related offences.
He added that designated enforcement authorities had been empowered to arrest offenders and impound vehicles, motorcycles and tricycles found to be in violation of the order.
He said offenders would be prosecuted in accordance with the law, while seized assets would be handled through established legal procedures.
Makinde linked the restrictions directly to the Oriire abduction, where gunmen kidnapped schoolchildren and teachers over 20 days ago.
“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,” he said.
He assured residents that his administration remained committed to securing the safe return of the 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,” he added.
He acknowledged the anguish being experienced by the affected families and communities, stressing that the victims had neither been forgotten nor abandoned.
Announcing the restriction on commercial motorcycle operations, Makinde said the measure was part of broader efforts to curb criminal activities and enhance public safety across the state.
He also implored residents to support security agencies by providing timely information on suspicious movements and activities.
“Security is a collective responsibility. If you see something, say something, and authorities will do something,” he said, while reminding residents to make use of the state’s toll-free emergency number, 615, to report security threats and emergencies.
The governor urged citizens to remain vigilant, united and resilient despite current security challenges, warning against allowing fear to undermine social harmony and public confidence.
He commended security agencies and personnel of the Amotekun Corps for their dedication and professionalism in responding to security threats across the state.
Makinde expressed optimism that sustained collaboration among security agencies, community stakeholders and residents would lead to the safe rescue of the abducted teachers and pupils and further strengthen security in Oyo State.
Earlier, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Abiodun Aikomo, said implementation of the executive order would be carried out by relevant agencies, including the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA), the Nigeria Police Force and other law enforcement bodies.
He disclosed that the agencies would submit periodic reports on enforcement activities to the state government.
Aikomo added that the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions would oversee prosecutions arising from enforcement of the order, while members of the public would be encouraged to report any misconduct by officials involved in its implementation.
