Insecurity: Oyo restricts commercial motorcyclists

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has announced restrictions on the operations of commercial motorcycle riders, popularly known as Okada operators, as part of measures to strengthen security across the state. Makinde announced the directive in an Executive Order issued on Friday. The governor, while addressing residents of the state on the ongoing efforts to secure the release of abducted teachers and pupils of Oriire Local Government Area, assured the people that the state government remained committed to ensuring their safe return. Makinde, in a video seen by Saturday PUNCH, said the operations of motorcycle riders would henceforth be restricted between 10:30pm and 5:30am across the state. He noted that the directive formed part of additional security measures introduced through an executive order aimed at curbing criminal activities and improving public safety. “With the signing of this executive order, we are also introducing additional measures to enhance security across our state. Consequently, the operations of motorcycle operators, popularly known as Okada riders, will now be restricted between the hours of 10:30pm and 5:30am throughout Oyo State,” the governor said. Makinde stressed that the government would not relent until the abducted teachers and schoolchildren regained their freedom, describing their continued captivity as painful for their families and communities. “We will not relent until our teachers and children are returned safely home. Every day they remain in captivity is a painful day for their families, their communities, and all of us in Oyo State. They have not been forgotten, and they have not been abandoned,” he said. According to him, the government may not be able to disclose details of ongoing rescue operations due to security considerations, insisting that intensive efforts were being made behind the scenes in collaboration with security agencies. “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. A great deal of work is being done behind the scenes, and we remain fully engaged with all relevant security agencies,” Makinde added. The governor also called on residents to support security agencies by providing useful information that could help prevent crime and improve security in their communities. “We can create laws and regulations, but their success ultimately depends on the cooperation of our people. This is another opportunity to remind us all that security is a shared responsibility. “If you