Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has signed Executive Order 002 of 2026 into law, introducing stricter regulations on vehicle registration and traffic management, including a statewide restriction on commercial motorcycle operations between 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m.
The governor said the measure forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen security across the state and curb criminal activities linked to the use of unregistered vehicles and motorcycles.
Speaking while signing the executive order at his office on Friday, Makinde explained that recent security incidents had highlighted the need for tighter enforcement of traffic and vehicle registration laws to safeguard lives and property.
According to him, investigations revealed that many vehicles and motorcycles used in criminal operations were either unregistered or difficult to trace, citing the recent abduction of school pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area as a key concern.
Makinde assured residents that efforts to secure the release of the abducted victims remain ongoing, stressing that the government is working closely with security agencies to ensure their safe return.
“For over 20 days, our teachers and pupils have remained in captivity. Their safe return remains a top priority of this administration, and we will not relent until they are reunited with their families,” the governor said.
He noted that the new executive order was backed by constitutional and state legal provisions and would provide a stronger framework for enforcing vehicle registration and traffic regulations across Oyo State.
As part of the order, commercial motorcycle operators, popularly known as Okada riders, are prohibited from operating during the designated nighttime hours throughout the state.
Makinde urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities through the state’s emergency line, 615.
“We can enact laws and regulations, but their effectiveness depends on the cooperation of the people. Security is a collective responsibility. If you see something, say something, and authorities will act,” he stated.
The governor also commended security agencies for their commitment and swift response to security challenges in the state, expressing confidence that ongoing efforts would further improve public safety.
Earlier, Oyo State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Abiodun Aikomo, explained that the executive order was designed to strengthen traffic regulation and enforce vehicle registration requirements.
He noted that many crimes are committed using vehicles without registration numbers, making investigations and tracking difficult for law enforcement agencies.
Aikomo added that the order empowers designated government enforcement authorities to arrest and prosecute offenders as well as impound vehicles found violating its provisions.
The signing ceremony was attended by top government officials, lawmakers, security advisers and heads of security agencies, including representatives of the Oyo State Security Network Agency, Amotekun, and the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority.