Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has signed Executive Order No. 2 of 2026 aimed at strengthening vehicle registration enforcement and improving traffic management across the state, while simultaneously announcing fresh security measures, including restrictions on the operations of commercial motorcyclists during late-night hours.
The governor, who signed the order on Friday, June 5, 2026, said the new directive became necessary in view of the prevailing security challenges confronting the state, particularly the abduction of teachers and pupils who have remained in captivity for more than twenty days.
Addressing government officials, security operatives and other stakeholders during the signing ceremony, Makinde painted a grim picture of the emotional burden borne by the state over the continued captivity of the victims.
“We are living through very trying times,” the governor said. “For over twenty days, our teachers and pupils have remained in captivity in the hands of terrorists. Our thoughts and prayers remain with them and with their families, who continue to endure unimaginable pain and uncertainty.”
He stressed that the Oyo State Government had remained actively involved in efforts aimed at securing the release of the abducted victims, assuring residents that the administration would not relent until every teacher and child was safely reunited with their loved ones.
“As a government, we share in their anxiety and their hope, and we remain committed to doing everything within our power to secure the safe return of every one of them,” Makinde stated.
According to him, beyond the immediate response to the unfortunate incident, there is also an urgent need to draw lessons from the security breach and adopt proactive measures capable of preventing similar occurrences in the future.
“While we continue to take all necessary actions to rescue them, we must also learn from this unfortunate incident and from other security breaches,” he said. “We owe it to our people to continue strengthening the security architecture of Oyo State so that we can better protect lives and property.”
The governor explained that it was against this backdrop that his administration decided to implement another phase of reforms targeted at improving public safety through stricter regulation of vehicle registration and traffic activities.
“It is within this context that we take another step towards improving security and public safety in our State,” he noted.
Makinde disclosed that the executive order was backed by constitutional and statutory provisions, adding that the legal instrument would strengthen compliance and enforcement mechanisms relating to vehicle documentation and traffic control.
“Therefore, it is pursuant to Section 5 (2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), Section 35 (Part 5) of the Road Traffic Law of Oyo State, Cap 148, Laws of Oyo State 2000, and all other enabling laws and powers in that regard, I signed Executive Order No. 2 of 2026 on the Regulation and Enforcement of Vehicle Registration and Traffic Management in Oyo State,” the governor declared.
Reiterating his administration’s commitment to the rescue mission, Makinde emphasized that the state government had not abandoned the abducted teachers and pupils despite public concerns over the prolonged ordeal.
“Let me also use this opportunity to restate that we will not relent until our teachers and children are returned safely home,” he assured.
“Every day they remain in captivity is a painful day for their families, their communities and all of us in Oyo State,” he added.
The governor further said: “I want to assure our people that efforts are ongoing around the clock and that the safe return of those abducted remains a top priority for this administration. They have not been forgotten, and they have not been abandoned.”
Addressing criticisms surrounding the government’s communication strategy on the rescue efforts, Makinde urged residents to understand the sensitive nature of security operations.
“We may not be able to disclose every step being taken because of the sensitive nature of the operations involved,” he said, “but I ask our people not to mistake our silence for inaction.”
He maintained that significant efforts were being undertaken behind the scenes in collaboration with relevant security agencies.
“A great deal of work is being done behind the scenes, and we remain fully engaged with all relevant security agencies,” Makinde stated.
As part of the immediate measures introduced under the new security framework, the governor announced a statewide restriction on the movement of commercial motorcycle operators during certain hours of the day.
“With the signing of this Executive Order, we are also introducing additional measures to enhance security across our State,” he explained.
“Consequently, the operations of commercial motorcycle operators, popularly known as Okada riders, will now be restricted between the hours of 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m. throughout Oyo State.”
Makinde appealed for public cooperation, insisting that the effectiveness of government policies depended largely on citizens’ willingness to comply and contribute to maintaining peace and order.
“We can create laws and regulations, but their success ultimately depends on the cooperation of our people,” he said.
“This is another opportunity to remind us all that security is a shared responsibility. If you see something, say something, and the authorities will do something.”
The governor also reminded residents of the state’s emergency response system, encouraging them to promptly report suspicious activities and emergencies.
“Our toll-free emergency contact number remains 615,” he announced. “Please call 615 free of charge whenever you observe a security threat or emergency within the State.”
Calling for unity in the face of adversity, Makinde urged the people of Oyo State not to surrender to fear despite the security challenges confronting their communities.
“Let me once again appeal to our people to remain vigilant, united and resilient,” he pleaded.
“We must not allow fear to define us or divide us. Those who seek to terrorise our communities depend on fear to achieve their objectives. We must respond with courage, vigilance and collective resolve.”
The governor equally reserved special commendation for members of the security agencies and the Oyo State Amotekun Corps, acknowledging their sacrifices and dedication in protecting residents during difficult times.
“I would also like to express my sincere appreciation to our security agencies and members of the Oyo State Amotekun Corps for their sacrifices, professionalism and continued service during this challenging period,” he said.
“We are grateful for all that they are doing to keep our State safe.”
As he concluded his remarks, Makinde returned to the plight of the abducted teachers and pupils, urging residents to sustain hope while continuing to support ongoing security efforts.
“As we continue to pray for the safe return of our teachers and children, let us remain vigilant, united and hopeful,” he said.
“With God’s help and the continued efforts of our security agencies, we remain committed to bringing them home safely.”
The signing of Executive Order No. 2 of 2026 marks one of the latest steps taken by the Makinde administration to tighten security measures and improve regulatory oversight in Oyo State, amid growing concerns over the safety of residents following recent incidents of insecurity.
For many residents, however, the overriding expectation remains the safe return of the abducted teachers and pupils whose continued captivity has cast a shadow over communities across the state. Even as new policies are introduced to enhance public safety, the governor’s repeated assurances underscore the administration’s determination to secure their freedom and restore confidence among the people of Oyo State.
