The Chairman of Epe Local Government Area of Lagos State, Ms. Surah Animashahun, has warned that roadside trading would no longer be tolerated within the area due to its hazards and traffic congestion.
Animashahun told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday, that the move became necessary to improve traffic flow, promote public safety, and restore orderliness in the busy areas.
She said the enforcement operation targeted key areas such as; Aiyetoro Market, Old Ijebu-Ode Garage, Ita-Opo, Shade Market and other identified prone areas across the community.
“Traders in these areas have encroached on road setbacks and pedestrian walkways, creating serious safety hazards.
“Henceforth, the council will not allow roadside trading because of the hazards and traffic congestion,”she said.
The chairman said that officials of Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) task force would be going round to carryout operations to curb the excesses of roadside trading across the ancient community.
Animashahun noted that several accidents had occurred along the Aiyetoro axis, resulting in loss of lives and property due to reckless driving.
“We cannot continue to lose lives and property as a result of indiscipline from our people, because the roads are meant for vehicles, and not for trading activities,”she said.
She explained that the local government had provided a suitable location behind the Aiyetoro market for traders to carry out their business safely without obstructing traffic.
“We have made adequate arrangements for our traders to sell behind the market where motorists do not ply. That place is officially designated for trading,”she said.
The council boss assured that efforts are ongoing to rebuild the demolished Aiyetoro market, which was pulled down during the administration of former governor Akinwunmi Ambode.
She expressed optimism that the market would soon be reconstructed under the leadership of Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, adding that discussions and planning were already at advanced stages.
NAN recalls that traders in affected communities such as; Aiyetoro, Ita-Opo, Shade, Popo Oba, and Papa were directed to relocate to government-approved markets areas.
The local government warned that any trader who flouted the directive would face sanctions in subsequent enforcement exercises.
Animashahun said the initiative was not meant to witch-hunt anyone but to ensure order, discipline, and safety of residents.
She appealed to market leaders and community heads to sensitise their members on the importance of compliance, stressing that urban management reforms would continue to receive priority under her administration. (NAN)
