Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has signed Executive Order No. 001 of 2026 to regulate, register, and coordinate all associations, groups, and organisations offering security and allied services in the state.
The order is aimed at strengthening Oyo’s security architecture and bringing vigilante and community-based security groups under a clear legal and operational framework.
Speaking after signing the order, Makinde said the step was necessary given rising insecurity and the proliferation of unregulated groups carrying out security-related activities.
“This executive order is another step in our commitment to protecting lives and property across the state,” the governor said. “At a time when insecurity has become more sophisticated, coordination, accountability, and proper regulation are necessary.”
Makinde noted that while security is a shared responsibility between government and citizens, uncoordinated operations could worsen the problem. He said all groups must now operate within rules that support peace, order, and the rule of law.
The governor also addressed the recent abduction of students and teachers in Orire Local Government Area, calling it painful and traumatic for the affected families.
“I want to assure everyone that we are working around the clock with security agencies and stakeholders to ensure the victims are brought home safely and alive,” he said.
Makinde warned against ethnic profiling and unlawful vigilantism, cautioning residents against forming groups under the guise of security that could trigger ethnic tension.
“We do not want people forming groups in the name of security and then starting ethnic profiling or confrontation,” he said. “Criminality will not be tolerated, but innocent residents must not be targeted because of their ethnic background.”
State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Abiodun Aikomo, said the regulation was needed to prevent uncoordinated security activities from creating more problems.
“All associations, groups, and organisations offering security-related services with more than five members must notify and register with the government through the Office of the Special Adviser on Security,” Aikomo said.
Existing groups have been given 72 hours to comply with the directive for documentation and certification. Aikomo added that failure to comply would be treated as a violation of the law and prosecuted.
The Office of the Special Adviser on Security, the Commissioner of Police, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps have been directed to enforce the order.
