The Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, has placed a restriction on the activities of commercial motorcycles, popularly known as okada, in the state.
The development was announced on Friday as the Governor signed Executive Order No. 002 of 2026 to strengthen security, enforce vehicle registration regulations, and improve traffic management across the state.
Speaking during the signing ceremony at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan, Makinde said under the directive, commercial motorcycle operators are prohibited from operating between 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m. daily.
The order is part of efforts targeted at curbing criminal activities in Oyo State following the recent abduction of 46 schoolchildren and teachers in the Orire Local Government Area of the State.
CityNews reports that Governor Makinde also used the occasion to reiterate that the government and security forces are not resting in their efforts towards ensuring the safe return of the abducted victims.
“We will not relent until our teachers and children are returned safely home. Everyday, 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 that the safe return of those abducted remains the top priority of this administration. They have not been forgotten and they have not been abandoned.
“We may not be able to disclose every step being taken because of the sensitive nature of the operations involved but 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.
“Consequently, the operations of motorcycle operators popular known as okada riders will now be restricted within the hours of 10:30pm and 5:30am throughout Oyo state,” Makinde announced.
