The Ondo State government has imposed a night-time ban on commercial motorcycles, popularly called Okadas, in a bid to tackle the surge in crime across the state. 

From 7 p.m. to 6 a.m., no motorcycle operations will be allowed except for security personnel and essential services.

The announcement was made on Wednesday by Ondo State Security Network Agency Commandant, Adetunji Adeleye, during the parade of 70 suspects arrested for various offences across the state.

Adeleye said the decision followed intelligence linking motorcycles to criminal activities, including kidnappings, armed robbery, and other violent crimes carried out at night.

Motorcycle operators have been given a two-week window to register with the state’s security agency and obtain certification to operate legally. Registration within this period will be free.

After the two-week period, riders will be required to pay N20,000 to the state’s Board of Internal Revenue to complete registration and obtain official documentation. The measure is aimed at ensuring that all Okada operators are properly documented.

The commandant added that the security drive is part of broader measures, which include a ban on cart pushing in major towns, mandatory registration of scrap metal dealers, and prohibition of displaying farm produce in unauthorized locations.

Of the 70 suspects paraded, Adeleye disclosed that 18 were arrested for kidnapping-related offences, 39 for breaches of law and order, one for violating the anti-grazing law, and another for human trafficking.

He further revealed that 11 other suspects were apprehended for court-related matters during security operations across all 18 local government areas of the state.

Adeleye emphasized that the government is determined to clamp down on criminal activities and strengthen security across Ondo State, urging residents to cooperate with authorities and comply with the new regulations.

The ban on night-time Okada operations marks a major step in the state’s efforts to restore law and order and protect citizens from rising criminal threats.