Ondo imposes night ban on okada to combat rising insecurity

Ondo State Imposes Night Ban on Okada to Combat Rising Insecurity

Introduction

On March 11, 2026, the Ondo State Government announced a decisive measure aimed at curbing rising insecurity across the state. The government has imposed a ban on the operation of commercial motorcycles, popularly known as okada, between the hours of 7 p.m. and 6 a.m. This restriction is part of a broader security strategy designed to address the increasing use of motorcycles in criminal activities such as kidnappings, armed robbery, and other violent crimes.

Rationale Behind the Ban

Security reports revealed that motorcycles have become a common tool for criminals, enabling swift mobility and escape during unlawful operations. In response, the Commander of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, also known as the Amotekun Corps, Adetunji Adeleye, emphasized that the ban is necessary to checkmate the nefarious activities of criminal elements. He noted that while similar restrictions had been enforced in the past, the current situation demanded reinforcement and stricter compliance.

Implementation and Exemptions

The ban took immediate effect, with exemptions granted only to security personnel and individuals engaged in essential services. To ensure proper documentation and accountability, commercial motorcyclists were given a two-week grace period to register with the state’s security agency. During this window, registration is free; however, after the deadline, riders will be required to pay ₦20,000 to the state’s Board of Internal Revenue for certification.

Additional Security Measures

Beyond the okada restriction, the government introduced complementary measures to strengthen security in urban and rural areas. These include:

• A ban on cart pushing in major metropolitan areas.
• Mandatory registration and tighter regulation of scrap metal dealers.
• Prohibition of displaying and selling farm produce at unauthorized roadside locations, particularly junctions, which intelligence reports suggest are being exploited by criminals as monitoring points.

Broader Context

The announcement coincided with the parading of 52 suspected criminals, including 18 alleged kidnappers, by the Amotekun Corps. This underscores the urgency of the government’s actions and highlights the scale of insecurity challenges facing Ondo State. The measures reflect a multi-pronged approach, combining restrictions, documentation, and regulation to restore public safety.

Conclusion

The night ban on okada operations in Ondo State represents a significant step in the fight against insecurity. By targeting the tools and methods commonly used by criminals, the government aims to reduce violent crimes and enhance safety for residents. While the policy may pose challenges for commercial motorcyclists, the broader objective remains the protection of lives and property, reinforcing the state’s commitment to security and order.