The governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, has signed an executive order restricting the movement of commercial motorcycles, popularly known as okadas, to daytime operations in a bid to curb rising insecurity after a deadly school kidnapping in the state’s Oriire Local Government Area.
Under the new directive, okada riders are now limited to operating between 5:30 a.m. and 10:30 p.m., with immediate effect. The government says the measure is designed to limit the use of motorcycles by criminal groups who often exploit the cover of darkness to evade security agencies.
The decision follows a shocking incident on May 15, when gunmen abducted 39 pupils, including toddlers, and seven teachers from three schools in Oriire. According to officials familiar with the case, one teacher was killed during the attack, while another was reportedly beheaded in captivity, underscoring the brutality of the assault.
Makinde, speaking through a statement from the state government, linked the curfew directly to ongoing rescue operations. “This is part of broader efforts to secure the safe release of the victims and to prevent further attacks,” a senior government official said. Authorities have confirmed that the kidnappers have made ransom demands, though details remain undisclosed. Claims of ideological motives have also surfaced, but officials say these remain unverified.
Security enforcement of the curfew will be led by the Nigeria Police Force alongside the regional security outfit, Amotekun. Both agencies have been deployed to intensify patrols in affected areas and enforce compliance with the new order.
The use of motorcycles in criminal activity has been a recurring challenge across parts of Nigeria, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas where difficult terrain allows quick escape routes. Analysts say restricting their movement at night could disrupt criminal logistics, though enforcement remains a key concern.
Reactions to the policy have been mixed. Some residents and community leaders have welcomed the move, describing it as a necessary step to restore safety. “If this will help protect our children and communities, then it is worth it,” said a local parent in Oriire.
However, okada riders and transport unions have raised concerns about the economic impact. Many operators rely on nighttime work to supplement their income, especially amid rising fuel costs and economic pressures. “This will affect our daily earnings seriously,” one rider said, urging the government to consider support measures.
The curfew adds to a growing list of security interventions by state governments grappling with kidnapping and banditry. For Oyo, the coming days will test whether the policy can strike a balance between tightening security and preserving livelihoods.
As rescue efforts continue, families of the abducted pupils and teachers remain in anxious, hoping for safe returns while authorities push to bring those responsible to justice.