Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on June 5, announced a statewide restriction on the operations of commercial motorcycle operators, commonly known as Okada riders, between 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m. The governor made this announcement while signing into law Executive Order No. 002 of 2026, which aims to strengthen security, enforce vehicle registration regulations, and improve traffic management across the state.
This development comes amid heightened security concerns in parts of the state, particularly the continued captivity of 46 pupils and their teachers who were abducted in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15. Speaking to newsmen, the governor stated, "We will not relent until our children are returned safely home. Every day they remain in captivity is a painful day for their families, their communities, and all of us in Oyo State. I want to assure our people that efforts are ongoing around the clock, and the safe return of those abducted remains the top priority of this administration. They have not been forgotten and not abandoned."
Governor Makinde added, "We may not be able to disclose every step being taken because of the sensitive nature of the operations involved. 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. With the signing of this executive order, we are introducing security measures to enhance security across our state. Consequently, the operations of commercial motorcycle operators, popularly known as Okada riders, will now be restricted from 10:30 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. throughout Oyo State."
