Governor Makinde Imposes Curfew On Okada Rider Operations Over Oyo School Abductions 

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has announced a state-wide curfew on commercial motorcycle operations as a response to security challenges confronting the state.

The governor made this announcement in a broadcast on Friday as part of security measure following the recent abductions of teachers and schoolchildren in the state.

Governor Makinde stressed that resolving the issue is a top priority for his administration, saying: “We will not relent until our teachers and children are returned safely home.”

He noted that “every day they remain in captivity is a painful day for their families, their communities, and all of us in Oyo State.”

Addressing public concern regarding the response to the kidnappings, Makinde reassured citizens that round-the-clock efforts are ongoing, even if specific tactical details cannot be made public.

“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,” the governor explained.

He added that a “great deal of work is being done behind the scenes” and that the victims have not been forgotten or abandoned.

To enhance security across Oyo State, Governor Makinde signed a new executive order introducing restrictions on commercial motorcycle operators, popularly known as Okada riders. Under this directive, Okada operations are restricted between the hours of 10:30 PM and 5:30 AM throughout Oyo State.

The governor noted that while the government can implement regulations, their success ultimately depends on the cooperation of the public. He reminded residents that security is a shared responsibility.

“If you see something, say something, and authorities will do something,” Makinde stated.

He reminded the public that the state’s toll-free emergency contact number remains 615, urging anyone with information to call the line free of charge.