Makinde Restricts Okada Operations Overnight Across Oyo State Amid Rising Security Concerns

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has announced a restriction on commercial motorcycle operations, popularly known as okada, between 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m. across the state as part of renewed efforts to strengthen security and curb criminal activities.

The governor disclosed the directive on Friday while addressing residents on the state’s security situation, particularly the ongoing efforts to secure the release of schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area.

According to him, the restriction is part of a broader set of emergency security measures designed to improve public safety and reduce the mobility of criminal elements during late-night hours. Makinde explained that while government policies and regulations are important, their effectiveness ultimately depends on public cooperation and collective responsibility.

He urged residents to support security agencies by remaining vigilant, reporting suspicious movements, and making use of available emergency response channels to assist ongoing security operations.

The governor also reassured citizens that the state government is working closely with relevant security agencies to rescue the abducted pupils and teachers, stressing that their safe return remains a top priority.

He, however, noted that operational details could not be made public due to the sensitive nature of the rescue mission, urging residents not to interpret government silence as inactivity.

Makinde expressed sympathy for the affected families, describing every day the victims remain in captivity as painful for their loved ones and the entire state. He emphasized that security efforts are ongoing around the clock and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring the safe return of all abducted victims.

The directive comes weeks after armed men abducted several schoolchildren and teachers during coordinated attacks on schools in Oriire Local Government Area near Ogbomoso, an incident that sparked widespread concern and renewed debate over school safety in Nigeria.

The attack, which involved the abduction of dozens of pupils and staff, has continued to draw public attention and intensified calls for stronger security measures to protect educational institutions and rural communities.

As security operations continue, the Oyo State government has reiterated its commitment to restoring safety and preventing further attacks across vulnerable parts of the state.