OWERRI, Nigeria – The Imo State Government has banned street trading, hawking, illegal roadside structures, and the loading and offloading of goods along major roads in Owerri, the state capital.
The affected roads include Rotobi, Royce and Douglas, which are major routes in the heart of Owerri.
The directive was contained in a joint statement by the General Manager of the Owerri Capital Development Authority, Franklin Nkem Nzewodo, and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Monitoring and Compliance, Chinasa Nwaneri.
The officials said roadside trading and indiscriminate loading and offloading contribute to traffic congestion and could increase the risk of road accidents.
The government clarified that Eke Ukwu Owerri Market, Relief Market, Cluster International Market and Egbeada International Market remain approved trading locations within Owerri Municipal.
Heavy-duty trucks, lorries and other vehicles have also been prohibited from using the affected roads as loading, unloading or offloading points.
The government directed traders, business operators, truck owners, drivers and other affected persons to move their activities to approved markets, designated trading areas and lawful loading points.
Authorities warned that violators could face arrest, prosecution, fines, confiscation of goods and vehicles, as well as the removal or demolition of illegal structures.
The move is aimed at improving traffic flow, reducing roadside obstruction and enhancing safety across Owerri.
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