Security: Makinde restricts night Okada, tightens security amid Oyo abduction crisis

By Precious Mark

Seyi Makinde, Oyo State Governor, has signed an Executive order to strengthen security enforcement and tighten regulation of vehicle registration and traffic management across the state, as authorities intensify efforts to rescue abducted teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area.

Under the new directive, commercial motorcycle operators (Okada riders) are now restricted from operating between 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m. statewide, a measure the government says is aimed at curbing criminal activities often linked to night movements.

Makinde announced the order on Friday during the signing ceremony in Ibadan, saying it was necessary to strengthen the state’s security architecture and improve compliance with existing traffic laws that are increasingly being exploited by criminals.

He said the decision was informed by ongoing security challenges, including the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers who have remained in captivity for over 20 days.

“We are living through very trying times,” Makinde said, describing the situation as painful for families and communities affected by the incident.

He added that the state government remains fully committed to securing the safe return of the victims, stressing that efforts are ongoing in collaboration with security agencies.

“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 said.

The governor warned that silence from government should not be mistaken for inaction, noting that sensitive rescue operations require discretion.

He explained that the executive order also strengthens enforcement against unregistered vehicles, motorcycles and tricycles, which he said have increasingly been used to facilitate criminal activities.

Makinde urged residents to support security agencies by providing timely information, stressing that security is a shared responsibility.

“If you see something, say something, and the authorities will do something,” he said, adding that residents can reach emergency services through the toll-free number 615.

He commended security agencies and the Amotekun Corps for their efforts, expressing optimism that the new measures would improve safety and support ongoing rescue operations.