Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has taken steps to increase security throughout the state, including a ban on commercial motorbike riders, or Okada operators.
In an Executive Order released on Friday, Makinde made the announcement.
In a speech to the people of the state, the governor updated them on the situation regarding the kidnapped teachers and students from Oriire Local Government Area and reassured them that the state government would not rest until they were safely returned.
In a video that was obtained by Saturday PUNCH, Makinde announced that, going forward, the hours that motorcyclists can operate within the state would be limited between 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m.
He elaborated by saying the order was one of several new security measures put in place by an executive order to make the country safer and less conducive to crime.
We are taking further steps to strengthen security throughout our state with the signature of this executive order. Motorcyclists in Oyo State, commonly referred to as “Okada riders,” would be unable to use their vehicles between 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m., according to the governor.
Makinde said that the abducted students and instructors were a burden on their families and communities, and that the government would not give in until they were freed.
Until our children andi instructors are back home safely, we will not give up. All of us in Oyo State, as well as their families and communities, suffer with each passing day that they are held captive. Accordng to him, they have not been left behind or ignored.
He stated that the government is collaborating with security services to make tremendous efforts behind the scenes, but that details of ongoing rescue operations may not be disclosed owing to security concerns.
The delicate nature of the operations means that we cannot reveal every detail at this time, but I beg our people not to consider our lack of transparency as a sign that we are doing nothing. Behind the scenes, a lot is happening, and we’re still very much involved with all the necessary security agencies, Makinde said.
The governor emphasised the importance of community members lending a hand to security authorities by sharing information that could enhance community safety and reduce crime rates.
Laws and rules can be drafted, but the collaboration of the people is what will determine their success or failure. Everyone needs to do their part to ensure everyone else’s safety, and here is another chance to do just that.
“The authorities will do something if you say something if you see something,” he stated.
Makinde went on to say that people should report any security threats or suspicious activity to the state’s toll-free emergency lines immediately.