As part of a larger security crackdown intended to reduce criminal activity and improve public safety, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has imposed a statewide nighttime ban on commercial motorbike operations, prohibiting okada riders from operating between 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m.

The governor issued Executive Order No. 002 of 2026 on Friday, which included the limitation as a major component to improve traffic management throughout the state, increase security, and enforce car registration laws.

The action was taken in response to mounting security concerns, especially in light of the teachers and students who were kidnapped in Oriire Local Government Area more than 20 days ago and are still in captivity.

Speaking at the signing event, Makinde stated that the measures were intended to address new security risks and guarantee more stringent adherence to current traffic and car registration regulations.

The governor claims that unregistered cars, tricycles, and motorcycles are increasingly being utilized to support illegal activity. Because these vehicles lack recognizable registration information, security services find it challenging to track down suspects and look into crimes.

He clarified that the executive order created a legal framework for the strict enforcement of other traffic laws and vehicle registration requirements. These included actions aimed at crimes like driving against the law and other infractions that endangered public safety.

Makinde revealed that specific enforcement agencies have the authority to detain criminals and seize cars, motorcycles, and tricycles that are discovered to be in violation of the order's terms.

The governor added that any seized assets and properties would be handled through existing legal procedures, and that anyone detained under the executive order would be prosecuted in line with the law.

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