Makinde said the directive was introduced to improve security coordination, prevent abuse by unregulated groups, and reduce the risk of ethnic tensions, especially amid rising insecurity in parts of the country.

He signed the order during a press briefing held at his private residence in Kolapo Ishola, Ibadan, where top security officials and senior government functionaries were present.

Speaking at the briefing, the governor warned residents against ethnic profiling and the targeting of innocent people under the guise of fighting crime.

He stressed that his administration would not tolerate any action capable of fueling ethnic division or endangering peaceful coexistence among residents.

“For emphasis, we must avoid at all costs anything that can lead to ethnic tension where people, because of their background, become targets,” Makinde said.

He urged residents to report criminal activities to the appropriate authorities instead of taking the law into their own hands, assuring that security agencies would act promptly when informed.

Makinde also cautioned against the formation of unregulated security groups that could engage in ethnic profiling or confrontation under the guise of community protection.

According to him, any legitimate security-related organisation must first notify the government and operate within approved legal frameworks.

Security Challenges And Government Response

The governor said the executive order was part of ongoing efforts to strengthen Oyo State’s security architecture and safeguard lives and property.

He explained that the regulation was intended to ensure that groups claiming to assist in community security do not become a source of insecurity themselves.

Makinde also addressed the recent abduction of students and teachers from Yawota and Ahoro-Esinele High School in Oriire Local Government Area, assuring that security agencies were working to secure their release.

He thanked residents for remaining calm and cooperating with authorities during rescue efforts.

Earlier, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Abiodun Aikomo, said the order would ensure accountability and proper monitoring of security-related groups operating in the state.

He noted that the rise of informal security organisations without regulation could worsen existing security challenges if not properly controlled.

Aikomo added that under the new directive, groups with more than five members engaged in security activities must register with the state government through the Office of the Governor.

He said existing groups have 72 hours to comply or face legal consequences.

According to him, enforcement will be carried out in collaboration with the Office of the Special Adviser on Security, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.

He warned that failure to comply with the executive order would amount to a violation of the law and would be prosecuted accordingly.