Imo govt bans street trading, illegal parks on major roads

The Imo State Government has announced a ban on street trading, hawking, and illegal roadside structures in Owerri, the state capital. The directive also prohibits the loading and unloading of goods along key thoroughfares, specifically Rotobi, Royce, and Douglas Roads.

The announcement was made in a joint press release from Franklin Nkem Nzewodo, General Manager of the Owerri Capital Development Authority (OCDA), and Chinasa Nwaneri, Special Adviser to the Governor on Monitoring and Compliance. The officials noted that such trading activities contribute to traffic congestion and pose safety risks, including potential accidents.

The government has designated Eke Ukwu Owerri Market, Relief Market, Cluster International Market, and Egbeada International Market as the only approved markets within Owerri Municipal. Officials emphasized that the aforementioned roads are not authorized for trading activities.

In addition to the ban on street trading, heavy-duty trucks and other vehicles are also prohibited from using these roads for loading or unloading activities.

“Traders, business operators, truck owners, drivers, and others impacted by this directive are instructed to relocate their activities to designated markets and lawful loading areas,” the government stated.

Furthermore, failure to comply with the new regulations may lead to enforcement actions, including arrests, prosecutions, fines, and the removal of illegal structures.

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