Seyi Makinde signs new security Executive order in Oyo: What does it mean
Seyi Makinde signs new Oyo security executive order in Ibadan
Governor Seyi Makinde has signed a new executive order aimed at regulating vigilance groups and local security outfits operating across Oyo State as concerns over insecurity continue to rise in parts of the country.
The development comes amid growing fears over kidnappings, ethnic profiling, and the proliferation of unregulated security groups in local communities. The governor announced the move during a high-level security briefing held at his Kolapo Ishola residence in Ibadan on Thursday.
The new order, officially titled Executive Order No. 001 of 2026, introduces mandatory registration and monitoring of all local security associations, vigilance groups, and community-based security organisations operating within the state.
Makinde Explains Reason Behind New Security Executive Order
Governor Makinde said the executive order became necessary to strengthen coordination among security stakeholders and prevent individuals or groups from taking the law into their hands under the guise of community protection.
According to him, the state government would no longer tolerate illegal or unregulated security groups capable of fueling ethnic tension or creating division among residents.
Makinde stressed that while the government remains committed to protecting lives and property, security efforts must remain lawful, transparent, and accountable.
The governor warned against ethnic profiling and retaliation attacks, insisting that innocent residents must not become targets because of their ethnic background.
He urged citizens to report suspicious activities directly to security agencies rather than resorting to vigilante justice or unlawful confrontations.
Oyo Government Orders Registration of All Vigilante Groups
Speaking during the briefing, Oyo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Abiodun Aikomo, explained that every security-related group with more than five members must now formally notify the Office of the Governor through the Special Adviser on Security.
The regulation affects both existing and newly formed groups operating anywhere within Oyo State.
According to Aikomo, already existing groups have been given 72 hours to comply with the directive or face legal consequences.
He stated that groups that complete registration would be documented and issued official certificates for monitoring and accountability purposes.
The commissioner added that the state government wants to identify anyone operating in uniforms or carrying weapons in the name of community security.
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Executive Order Linked to Rising Insecurity in Oyo
The new security directive comes shortly after the abduction of teachers and students from Yawota and Ahoro-Esinele High School in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Governor Makinde acknowledged the emotional trauma caused by the incident and assured residents that security agencies were intensifying efforts to rescue the victims safely.
He thanked residents for remaining calm and cooperating with law enforcement agencies during ongoing rescue operations.
Makinde maintained that his administration remains fully committed to strengthening Oyo’s security architecture while avoiding actions that could trigger ethnic confrontation or social unrest.
Oyo State Warns Against Illegal Security Operations
The Oyo State Government also warned that individuals or groups operating illegally under the guise of local security would face prosecution.
Aikomo explained that failure to comply with the executive order amounts to a violation of the law.
He disclosed that enforcement would be handled jointly by the Office of the Special Adviser on Security, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.
The government noted that the increasing number of self-styled security outfits across Nigeria could worsen insecurity if left unchecked.
Officials also said the regulation would improve intelligence gathering, coordination, and monitoring of security operations across communities in the state.
Security Stakeholders Back Digital Monitoring and Reform
At the briefing, government officials emphasised the importance of digital tracking, documentation, and institutional accountability in addressing insecurity.
Makinde said innovation and stronger monitoring systems would help prevent abuse and improve trust between residents and security agencies.
The governor reiterated that security remains a shared responsibility involving both the government and citizens.
He called on residents to continue supporting lawful security operations while avoiding misinformation, panic, and divisive rhetoric.
The executive order is expected to significantly reshape how community-based security groups operate in Oyo State going forward.
FAQ
What is the new security executive order signed by Seyi Makinde?
Governor Seyi Makinde signed Executive Order No. 001 of 2026 to regulate vigilance groups, local security outfits, and community-based security organisations operating in Oyo State.
Why did Makinde sign the executive order?
The executive order was introduced to improve security coordination, prevent ethnic profiling, stop illegal vigilante operations, and strengthen accountability among local security groups.
Who must register under the new Oyo security law?
Any security-related group or organisation with more than five members operating in Oyo State must register with the Office of the Governor through the Special Adviser on Security.
How long do existing vigilante groups have to comply?
Existing groups have been given 72 hours to notify the Oyo State Government and complete registration procedures.
What happens to unregistered security groups in Oyo State?
The Oyo State Government warned that failure to comply with the executive order could lead to prosecution and other legal consequences.
Is the executive order connected to recent kidnappings in Oyo?
Yes. The order comes amid rising insecurity and follows the abduction of teachers and students in Oriire Local Government Area.
What did Makinde say about ethnic profiling?
Makinde warned residents against targeting innocent people based on ethnicity, stressing that crime-fighting efforts must not create ethnic tension or division.
Which agencies will enforce the new security order?
The executive order will be enforced by the Office of the Special Adviser on Security, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.
Will registered security groups receive government approval?
Yes. Registered groups will be documented and issued official certificates for monitoring and recognition by the state government.
How does the executive order affect security in Oyo State?
The government believes the regulation will improve intelligence gathering, accountability, coordination, and transparency in community security operations across the state.