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

Makinde said the move was aimed at ensuring that vigilante groups and other community-based security outfits operate within a clear legal and operational framework to promote peace, order and the rule of law.

The governor signed the order on Wednesday in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

He said the directive became necessary due to rising security challenges and the increasing number of groups involved in security activities without proper coordination.

Makinde noted that security remains a shared responsibility between government and citizens, stressing that all organisations involved in security and allied services must now be properly registered, documented and monitored by the state government.

He also cautioned residents and socio-cultural groups against actions or narratives capable of triggering ethnic tension, ethnic profiling or discrimination.

The governor warned that the state would not tolerate criminality carried out under the guise of security operations.

Makinde also addressed the recent abduction of students and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area, assuring residents that efforts were ongoing to secure the release of the victims.

He commended security agencies and residents for their patience and cooperation, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to improving security coordination across the state.

The governor urged residents to report suspicious activities to security agencies instead of taking the law into their own hands.

Earlier, the state Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Abiodun Aikomo, said all associations and groups 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.

He added that existing groups are expected to notify the office within 72 hours and comply with registration and documentation requirements.

According to Aikomo, the regulation will help government identify and monitor individuals and groups operating security outfits or carrying weapons across the state.

He warned that failure to comply with the order would attract sanctions.

Aikomo added that the Office of the Special Adviser on Security, the Commissioner of Police and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps had been directed to enforce compliance with immediate effect.