Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Ondo State Government has announced a temporary ban on commercial motorcycle (okada) operations and cart pushing during nighttime hours as part of a strengthened security response to a recent surge in kidnapping, armed robbery and other violent crimes across the state.
The directive, issued by the state governor following consultations with security agencies and community leaders, comes after a series of reported attacks on commuters, traders and residents along major highways and rural routes, particularly under the cover of darkness. Authorities say criminals have increasingly taken advantage of poorly lit roads and reduced visibility at night to carry out abductions and thefts with relative impunity.
Under the new regulation, all commercial motorcycle operators and pushcart vendors are prohibited from plying their trade during specified night hours. The state government emphasised that the ban is temporary and applies only during the hours deemed highest risk for criminal activity, while promising regular review of the restrictions as security conditions improve.
The governor explained that the safety and security of lives and property remain the foremost responsibility of government. He said recent intelligence and incident reports indicate an uptick in violent crime that threatens public confidence and community wellbeing, making decisive action necessary.
“We have taken this decision out of necessity to protect our people from kidnappers and armed robbers, who have become more brazen in their operations at night,” the governor said. “We appeal to residents and transport operators to cooperate with security agencies as we work to restore peace and safety across the state.”
Officials acknowledged that the directive may create economic challenges for some residents who depend on motorcycle transportation and nighttime cart pushing for their livelihood. The government said it would engage with community leaders and relevant agencies to explore temporary arrangements that can support operators while ensuring public safety.
Residents with essential reasons to travel during the restricted hours are being encouraged to seek permission from local security officials or otherwise provide evidence of urgent need, such as medical emergencies.
Security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, the Amotekun Corps and other state and federal security operatives, have been tasked with enforcing the ban. Joint patrols are being intensified along highways, in major towns and in communities identified as high‑risk zones for kidnapping and robbery. The move is part of a wider effort to disrupt criminal networks and reassure the public.
Local transport unions and associations have expressed mixed reactions to the announcement. Some operators commended the government for taking action to improve safety, while others voiced concern about the impact on their income and ability to support their families, especially in a challenging economic environment.
Community leaders welcomed the government’s decision, saying that residents had been living in fear due to frequent reports of nighttime abductions and attacks on travellers. They urged operators and residents to cooperate with authorities to reduce the risk of further criminal incidents.
Security analysts say that restricting night movement for vulnerable transport modes such as motorcycles and pushcarts can help limit opportunities for criminals who exploit darkness and isolated routes. However, they also emphasised the importance of complementary measures, including improved street lighting, enhanced intelligence gathering and stronger community policing partnerships.
Similar restrictions have been adopted by other state governments in the South‑West and across Nigeria, where nighttime bans on certain transport operations are seen as one of several tools to address escalating security threats.
Authorities have assured the public that the measure is not intended to criminalise legitimate workers but to restrict conditions that enable criminal elements to operate with relative ease. Lawful daytime activities remain unaffected, and citizens are encouraged to report suspicious activities to security officials.
The government has also pledged to expand community engagement initiatives, improve street lighting in strategic locations and establish additional security checkpoints to boost public confidence. Traditional rulers and community representatives have been engaged in ongoing dialogue with government officials to mobilise support for the enforcement of the new restrictions.
Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and cooperate with security forces as the state works to restore a sense of normalcy and safety. Officials reiterated that collective action is necessary to confront growing insecurity and protect lives and property.
The ultimate goal of the ban, authorities say, is to reduce nighttime criminal activity, reassure residents and create conditions in which normal economic and social activities can resume without fear of attack. The government said it will regularly assess the security situation and adjust the restrictions as needed to reflect improvements on the ground.
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