The government of Ondo State has introduced a major security directive restricting the operation of commercial motorcycles during nighttime hours.
The decision forms part of renewed efforts to address criminal activities and improve public safety across the state.
Under the new directive, commercial motorcycle operators—commonly known in Nigeria as Okada—are prohibited from operating between 7:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. daily.
Authorities say the measure was introduced after security agencies provided intelligence indicating that motorcycles are frequently used to facilitate crimes such as kidnapping, robbery, and other violent offences.
Officials say the Ondo government believes that limiting motorcycle movement at night will help security operatives monitor suspicious activities more effectively.
Criminal groups often rely on motorcycles because they can easily move through narrow roads and escape quickly after committing crimes. The new rule, according to authorities, aims to reduce such advantages.
The announcement was made by the commander of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, Adetunji Adeleye, during the public parade of dozens of suspects arrested by security personnel.
At the briefing, Adeleye presented 52 individuals suspected of various crimes and 18 others linked to kidnapping activities within different parts of the state.
He explained that the restriction on nighttime motorcycle movement is part of broader security reforms currently being implemented across Ondo.
According to him, security agencies observed that many criminal incidents reported in recent months involved suspects using motorcycles either to reach their targets or to escape from security patrols.
Adeleye clarified that the ban would apply to commercial riders across the state, although certain exemptions will be allowed.
Motorcycles used by security agencies, emergency responders, and essential service providers will still be permitted to operate during the restricted hours when necessary.
Beyond the night restriction, the Ondo authorities have also announced a comprehensive registration exercise aimed at properly documenting all commercial motorcycle operators in the state.
The Amotekun commander stated that every rider must register with the state security network agency and obtain certified identification documents.
To make the process easier, the government has granted riders a two-week grace period during which the registration will be conducted free of charge.
Officials are encouraging riders to take advantage of the opportunity and comply with the directive.
According to Adeleye, the registration exercise will help security agencies maintain an accurate database of operators working within Ondo, which will make it easier to trace individuals when necessary.
He noted that once the two-week window closes, riders who fail to register during the free period will be required to pay ₦20,000 to the Ondo State Board of Internal Revenue before completing their documentation.
Authorities say the registration process is not meant to punish operators but rather to ensure proper identification and monitoring within the transportation sector.
With many residents relying on motorcycles for daily transportation, the government believes proper regulation will improve both safety and accountability.
In addition to regulating commercial motorcycles, the Ondo administration has introduced other measures targeting activities within the informal sector.
One of such policies is the prohibition of cart pushing in major urban centres. Officials say the activity often contributes to traffic congestion and has also been linked to minor criminal operations in crowded areas.
The government has also announced new rules for scrap metal dealers operating within the state.
Under the proposed system, individuals involved in the buying and selling of scrap materials will be required to register their equipment and business activities with relevant authorities.
The aim is to curb the growing problem of stolen public infrastructure, such as metal railings and electrical installations, being sold as scrap.
Furthermore, authorities stated that traders will no longer be allowed to display farm produce in unauthorised roadside locations.
The policy is intended to improve sanitation, maintain order in markets, and reduce obstruction on major roads.
Security analysts say the combined policies show that Ondo is adopting a multi-layered approach to addressing crime.
Instead of relying solely on arrests and patrols, the government is attempting to regulate sectors that criminals sometimes exploit.
The Amotekun Corps, which was established to complement conventional security agencies, has been playing a significant role in community-based security operations in the state.
Through intelligence gathering and collaboration with residents, the agency has carried out numerous arrests and rescue operations in recent years.
Officials believe that the latest directives will strengthen ongoing security strategies while also encouraging greater accountability among individuals working in the transportation and informal business sectors.
Residents across Ondo have reacted with mixed opinions to the announcement.
While some people believe the restriction will help reduce crime, others have expressed concern about how it may affect commuters who depend on motorcycles for late-night transportation.
Despite the concerns, authorities insist that the decision is necessary for public safety.
Government representatives say they will continue to review the policy and make adjustments where necessary to ensure that both security and economic activities are balanced effectively.
Overall, the new measures reflect the determination of the Ondo administration to tighten security oversight, improve documentation of commercial operators, and address criminal threats affecting communities throughout the state.
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