Street traders and mechanics in Abia State, particularly on the recently reconstructed roads in Aba and Umuahia, have been given until July 1st to evacuate the streets or face severe penalties from the state government. The ultimatum, conveyed by Permanent Secretary Izuchukwu Onwughara on behalf of Commissioner Otumchere Oti, targets activities deemed detrimental to road longevity.
In a statement released in Umuahia, the government emphasized the prohibition of business transactions, refuse dumping in drainage systems, and improper use of asphalted roads for activities like borehole and sewage water channelling. The government also frowned upon mechanics operating on roadways, stressing their actions’ potential harm to road infrastructure.
“Government reminds the public,” the statement reads, “that conducting business or engaging in unauthorized activities on the newly reconstructed roads is strictly forbidden. This includes displaying goods on paved surfaces, notably on Owerri Road in Umuahia, and various roads in Aba such as Kenth Road, Jubilee Road, Ngwa Road, Port Harcourt Road, Obioha Road, and Enugu Port Harcourt Expressway near Ariaria Market Junction.”
The announcement concludes with a stern warning to violators to cease their activities immediately. Failure to comply within seven days of the announcement, particularly regarding the specified locations, will result in legal repercussions enforced by the government.
