IBADAN — In a move to strengthen state security and curb criminal activities, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has signed Executive Order 002 of 2026, which officially restricts the operations of commercial motorcycles—widely known as "okada" across the state.

The New Directive

Under the new executive order, commercial motorcycle operations are now prohibited between the hours of 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m. daily.

Governor Makinde explained that the restriction is a direct response to the rising trend of criminals utilizing unregistered motorcycles to facilitate illegal activities, including the coordination of high-profile kidnappings. By enforcing stricter vehicle registration and traffic management, the government aims to enhance surveillance capabilities and improve the state's overall security architecture.

Context: The Oriire Kidnappings

This measure follows the devastating abduction of dozens of schoolchildren and teachers in the Oriire Local Government Area on May 15, 2026.

  • The Incident: Armed men raided three schools—Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Community Grammar School, and L.A. Primary School abducting 49 people, including pupils, teachers, and a toddler.

  • Current Status: As of early June 2026, the victims remain in captivity. The crisis has caused national outrage, triggered an indefinite strike by the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT), and led to a rejection of calls for negotiations by the Oyo State House of Assembly.

  • Tragic Toll: The situation has been compounded by the brutal killing of a mathematics teacher, Michael Oyedokun, while in captivity.

Government Response

Governor Makinde emphasized that while his administration is working around the clock in collaboration with security agencies to secure the release of the victims, the details of these rescue missions remain highly sensitive. He urged the public not to interpret the government's operational silence as inaction.

"Security is a shared responsibility," the Governor stated, reminding residents to report suspicious activities via the state’s toll-free emergency number, 615.