The Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has officially signed Executive Order No. 002 of 2026, imposing a strict nighttime curfew on commercial motorcycle operators—popularly known as “Okada” riders—amid escalating security concerns across the state.
Under the new directive, commercial motorcycles are prohibited from operating anywhere in Oyo State between the hours of 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m.
Governor Makinde explained that the restriction is a necessary strategy to curb criminal activities, boost community surveillance, and close loopholes frequently exploited by bad actors under the cover of darkness.
The aggressive policy rollout comes at a tense moment for the state, which is currently grappling with the ongoing captivity of schoolchildren and teachers abducted in the Oriire Local Government Area more than 20 days ago.
Speaking at the signing ceremony in his office on Friday, Governor Makinde revealed that Executive Order No. 002 is designed to enforce strict compliance with existing vehicle registration laws to stop criminals from using unidentified vehicles to evade tracking.
He assured residents that confidential efforts are underway behind the scenes to secure the safe return of the victims, urging the public to assist security agencies by utilizing the state’s toll-free emergency number, 615.
The executive order officially empowers the Nigeria Police Force, the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA), and the Amotekun Corps to immediately arrest offenders and impound violating vehicles.
To ensure the new powers are not abused, the state’s Attorney General, Abiodun Aikomo, stated that enforcement agencies must submit periodic reports and operate under the direct legal oversight of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.
pThe signing was witnessed by top government officials, including the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin, alongside various state security chiefs and road management executives.
