Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde on Friday signed Executive Order No. 002 of 2026, aimed at strengthening security, enforcing vehicle registration regulations, and improving traffic management across the state. The order comes amid heightened security concerns following the abduction of teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area.
Executive Order Details
During the signing ceremony at the Governor's Office in Ibadan, Makinde stated that the executive order provides a legal framework for strict enforcement of vehicle registration laws and traffic regulations. He expressed concern over the increasing use of unregistered vehicles, motorcycles, and tricycles in criminal activities, noting that lack of registration details often hampers investigations by security agencies.
The order empowers designated enforcement authorities to arrest offenders and impound vehicles, motorcycles, and tricycles operating in violation of the law. Offenders will be prosecuted according to existing legal provisions, and confiscated assets will be handled through due process.
Link to Recent Security Breaches
Makinde linked the new measures to lessons drawn from recent security breaches, particularly the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area. He said, "We are living through very trying times. For more than 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."
The governor assured residents that his administration remains committed to securing the safe return of the victims, with ongoing efforts in collaboration with relevant security agencies. He acknowledged the anguish of affected families and emphasized that the victims have not been forgotten or abandoned.
Restriction on Commercial Motorcycle Operations
A major highlight of the executive order is the restriction on commercial motorcycle operations across the state. Under the directive, commercial motorcycle operators are prohibited from operating between 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m. daily. Makinde said this measure is part of broader efforts to curb criminal activities, enhance surveillance, and improve public safety.
He called on residents to support security agencies by providing timely and credible information on suspicious movements and activities, describing security as a collective responsibility. "If you see something, say something, and authorities will do something," he said, urging residents to use the state's toll-free emergency line, 615, to report security threats and emergencies.
Appeal for Vigilance and Unity
Makinde appealed to citizens to remain vigilant, united, and resilient in the face of security challenges, warning against allowing fear to undermine social cohesion. He commended security agencies and operatives of the Oyo State Security Network Agency, codenamed Amotekun Corps, for their commitment and professionalism.
The governor expressed optimism that sustained collaboration among security agencies, community stakeholders, and residents would facilitate the rescue of the abducted teachers and pupils and strengthen security across Oyo State.
Enforcement and Oversight
Earlier, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Abiodun Aikomo, said enforcement of the order will be carried out by relevant agencies, including the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA), the Nigeria Police Force, and other law enforcement bodies. These agencies will submit periodic reports on enforcement activities to the state government, while the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions will oversee prosecutions.
Aikomo added that mechanisms have been put in place to ensure transparency and accountability, including channels for the public to report misconduct by enforcement officials. Among dignitaries present at the event were the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin; Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Olanike Adeyemo; Special Adviser on Security Matters, CP Fatai Owoseni (rtd.); Executive Assistant on Security, CP Sunday Odukoya (rtd.); Chairman of OYRTMA, Major Adekoya Adesagba (rtd.), and heads of relevant security and traffic management agencies.
