Oyo governor bans motorcycle operations at night

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has limited the use of commercial motorcycles, called okada, from 10:30 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. across the state. This move aims to boost security and fight crime.

The governor shared this news on Friday in a video about the state’s security situation. He also talked about the efforts to free schoolchildren and teachers who were kidnapped in Oriire Local Government Area.

Mr. Makinde explained that this decision is part of new security measures to improve safety for everyone in Oyo State.

“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 our state,” the governor said.

He asked residents to help security agencies by sharing useful information that could support ongoing efforts. He also encouraged them to report any suspicious activities through the state’s emergency response channels.

“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 authorities will do something.”

The governor assured residents that work is ongoing to rescue the kidnapped teachers and children. He said their safe return is a top priority for his government.

According to the governor, the state government is working closely with security agencies but cannot share operational details due to the sensitive nature of the rescue efforts. He urged the public not to think that government silence means they are not doing anything.

“Every day our teachers and children remain in captivity is a painful day for their families, their communities and all of us in our state,” he 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 of this administration.”

This new rule comes three weeks after armed men kidnapped about 39 schoolchildren and seven teachers in Oriire Local Government Area near Ogbomoso on May 15.

The incident led to widespread anger in Oyo State and other parts of Nigeria. People are worried about the safety of schools and communities.

The crisis worsened when the kidnappers killed one of the victims, Michael Oyedokun, a mathematics teacher. They threatened to kill others, which increased fears among families and residents. This situation has led to calls for urgent action from security agencies and the government.

The abduction also pushed the Oyo State chapter of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) to start an indefinite strike on June 1. They are demanding the immediate rescue of the victims and better security in schools.

In recent weeks, the state government has held meetings with education stakeholders, security agencies, and labor leaders to find ways to secure the victims’ release.

As pressure grows to free the victims, the Oyo State House of Assembly on Wednesday rejected calls for negotiations with the kidnappers. They insisted that the government should not encourage crime by talking to the criminals. Instead, lawmakers urged security agencies to step up rescue operations and ensure that the kidnappers are caught and punished.