The Ondo State Government has announced new security measures aimed at strengthening public safety and curbing criminal activities across the state, including a ban on the use of motorcycles at night and the prohibition of cart pushing in major metropolitan areas.
The directives were announced on Wednesday by the Commander of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, also known as Amotekun, Chief Adetunji Adeleye, while parading 70 suspects arrested for various offences across the state.
According to Adeleye, the measures were introduced by the state government to check the activities of kidnappers, armed robbers and other criminal elements operating within the state.
Arrest of Suspects
The Amotekun commander disclosed that those arrested include 18 suspected kidnappers, 39 individuals accused of breaching law and order, one suspect linked to violation of the anti-grazing law, one human trafficking suspect, and 11 others involved in court-related matters.
He explained that the new directives form part of a broader strategy by the government to strengthen the state’s security architecture and maintain public order.
Night Ban on Motorcycles
Adeleye announced that the operation of motorcycles, popularly known as Okada, has been banned between 7:00 pm and 6:00 am across Ondo State, except for security agencies and other categories specifically exempted by the government.
“The operational use of motorcycles within Ondo State is prohibited between the hours of 7pm and 6am,” he said.
“This restriction shall apply across the state except for security agencies and other persons specifically exempted by the government.”
He also directed that all motorcycle operators must register with the Ondo State Security Network Agency within two weeks and obtain certification before continuing operations.
The registration will be free within the two-week grace period, after which operators will be required to pay ₦20,000 to the Ondo State Board of Internal Revenue.
“Any person who fails to comply with this registration requirement shall be deemed to be operating unlawfully within the state,” Adeleye warned.
Other Security Measures
The Amotekun boss also announced a ban on cart pushing in major metropolitan areas, explaining that the decision was taken to improve public safety, traffic management and environmental order.
In addition, the government directed dealers in condemned iron scraps and other metallic materials to register with the state government within two weeks, warning that failure to comply could attract enforcement action.
The government also prohibited the display and sale of farm produce outside approved markets, particularly along roadsides and junctions.
Adeleye said intelligence reports indicated that some makeshift roadside markets were being used by criminal elements to monitor activities within urban centres.
Enforcement of Directives
He stated that security agencies across the state have been directed to strictly enforce the new measures.
The directives, according to him, are part of the state government’s broader effort to protect lives and property and maintain peace and order in Ondo State.
Residents were therefore urged to cooperate with security agencies and comply fully with the measures in the interest of public safety.
About The Author
