The Oyo State Government has introduced new security measures aimed at strengthening public safety, including restrictions on commercial motorcycle operations and stricter enforcement of vehicle registration laws.
Governor Seyi Makinde announced the directive on Friday after signing Executive Order 002 of 2026 in his office in Ibadan.
Under the new regulation, commercial motorcycle operators are prohibited from operating between 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m., as part of efforts to curb criminal activities in the state.
Makinde explained that the order also reinforces compliance with existing traffic and vehicle registration laws, noting that many crimes have been linked to unregistered motorcycles, tricycles, and vehicles.
He said the lack of proper registration has made it difficult for security agencies to trace suspects involved in criminal incidents.
The governor stated that the executive order provides a legal framework for stricter enforcement of road usage regulations, including penalties for driving against traffic and other related offences.
He added that enforcement agencies are now empowered to arrest violators and impound any vehicle, motorcycle, or tricycle found breaching the new directives.
According to him, offenders will be prosecuted in line with the law, while confiscated items will be processed through the appropriate legal channels.
Makinde linked the new security measures to recent incidents in the state, including the abduction of school pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15.
He described the situation as deeply concerning, noting that victims had remained in captivity for several weeks, while families continued to endure emotional distress.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to securing the safe return of all abducted persons, stressing that government is working closely with security agencies to achieve results.
He added that although operational details could not be disclosed, significant efforts were ongoing behind the scenes to resolve the situation.
Makinde urged residents to remain calm and not interpret the government’s silence as a lack of action.
Earlier, the state Commissioner for Justice, Abidoun Aikomo, had outlined the provisions of the order, which include restrictions on unregistered vehicles, enforcement against one-way driving, and broader regulations on vehicle documentation and road use.
He noted that the measures are designed to improve security and enhance compliance with traffic laws across the state.