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, as part of measures to ease traffic congestion and improve road safety.
The affected roads include Rotobi, Royce and Douglas, located in the heart of Owerri.
The directive was contained in a joint statement issued 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 loading activities contribute to traffic obstruction and could increase the risk of accidents.
Traders ordered to approved markets
The government identified Eke Ukwu Owerri Market, Relief Market, Cluster International Market and Egbeada International Market as designated markets within Owerri Municipal.
It stressed that the affected major roads are not approved trading locations and directed traders, business operators and other affected persons to relocate their activities to designated markets and lawful loading points.
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The directive also prohibits heavy-duty trucks, lorries and other vehicles from using the affected roads for loading, unloading or offloading.
The government warned that continued violations would attract enforcement measures, including arrest, prosecution, fines, confiscation of goods and the removal or demolition of illegal structures.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.