Enugu gives roadside traders ultimatum to vacate roads

The Enugu State Ministry of Transport on Wednesday gave a seven-day ultimatum to roadside traders to vacate trading in the Abakpa Nike axis of Enugu.

The ministry also warned against one-way driving, saying that motorist caught driving against traffic would have their vehicle impounded and made to pay fine.

The State Commissioner for Transport, Obi Ozor, gave the warning in a statement issued by the ministry’s spokeswoman, Chinwendu Odumegwu in Enugu.

Mr Ozor said the ministry has intensified campaign to sensitise the general public.

He said the exercise covered major corridors, include Ukwu Aki, Texaco, Nowas, T-Junction and Nkwo, where traffic violations and road obstructions had continued to affect the free flow of traffic.

According to him, drivers and tricycle riders were sensitised on the dangers and penalties associated with driving against traffic, while traders were given a seven-day ultimatum to vacate roadways and other obstructed areas.

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He emphasised that the current exercise was focused on sensitisation, but warned that strict enforcement and prosecution of offenders would commence after the expiration of the grace period.

Mr Ozor urged motorists, traders and residents to cooperate with the state government in its efforts to make Abakpa safer and more accessible.

“One-way driving is a death trap. Keep to your lane and keep the roads clear,” the commissioner cautioned.

(NAN)