Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has signed Executive Order 001 of 2026 to regulate associations, groups and organisations offering security and allied services in the state.

He signed the order on Wednesday in Ibadan, the state capital, as part of a wider response to rising insecurity and the spread of uncoordinated local security groups.

The order covers vigilante groups and other community-based outfits that operate in security roles across the state.

Makinde said the new rule will give the government a clear legal and operational structure to guide such groups.

Why The Order Matters

The governor said security problems across communities has made the order compelling.

He said more groups had begun taking on security duties without proper coordination, which created room for confusion and risks.

He added that security is a shared duty between the government and residents, but it must still follow the law.

Makinde also warned against actions that could stir ethnic tension.

He said socio-cultural groups must avoid language or behaviour that could lead to ethnic profiling, discrimination or confrontation.

According to him, the state will not tolerate criminal activity under the cover of security work.

The order comes at a time when Oyo is dealing with the fallout from the abduction of students and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.

Makinde said the state government is working with security agencies and other stakeholders to secure the release of the victims.

He also praised residents and security agencies for their patience and restraint during the crisis.

What The Order Requires

Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice Abiodun Aikomo explained the rules behind the new directive.

He said all associations, groups and organisations providing security-related services with more than five members must notify and register with the government.

Registration will go through the Office of the Special Adviser on Security.

Aikomo said existing groups must notify the office within 72 hours of the order being signed.

He added that they must also comply with documentation and certification requirements.

The aim is to help the government identify and monitor groups carrying weapons or operating in security uniforms across the state.

Aikomo warned that failure to comply will amount to a breach of the law and attract punishment.

He said the Office of the Special Adviser on Security, the Commissioner of Police and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps have been told to enforce the order immediately.

The new directive gives Oyo State a tighter grip on local security operations and places vigilante-style groups under direct state scrutiny.

For residents, it signals a stronger push for order, registration and accountability in community security work.

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