Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has signed Executive Order 002 of 2026, introducing a statewide restriction on the movement of commercial motorcycles, commonly known as Okada, during nighttime hours.
The governor announced the new directive in a broadcast delivered across the state on Friday, June 5.
Under the order, commercial motorcycle operators are prohibited from carrying out their activities between 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m.
During the address, Makinde also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to securing the release of the teachers and schoolchildren abducted in Oriire, assuring residents that efforts to rescue them remain ongoing.
He said: “Everyday they remain in captivity is a painful day for their families, their communities and all of us in our state.
“I want to assure our people that efforts are ongoing around the clock, and that safe return of those abducted remains a top priority of this administration. They have not been forgotten and they have not been abandoned.”
The governor stressed that the state government remains actively involved in rescue operations, although certain details cannot be made public because of the delicate nature of the mission.
He explained that regular security consultations are taking place and urged residents to remain confident in the government’s approach.
According to him: “We may not be able to disclose every step being taken because of the sensitive nature of the operations involved, but I ask our people not to mistake our silence for inaction. A great deal of work is being done behind the scenes, and we remain fully engaged with all relevant security agencies.”
Makinde noted that the newly signed executive order forms part of broader security measures aimed at improving safety across Oyo State.
He stated:
“With the signing of this executive order, we are also introducing additional measures to enhance security across our states. Consequently, the operations of commercial motorcycle operators, popularly known as Okada riders, will now be restricted between the hours of 10.30 pm and 5.30 am throughout our state.”
The governor further appealed to residents and key stakeholders to support the government’s efforts by cooperating with security agencies and complying with the new measures.
His words:Â
“We can create laws and regulations, but their success ultimately depends on the cooperation of our people. “This is another opportunity to remind us all that security is a shared responsibility. If you say something, say something, and authorities will do something.”Â
