The Enugu State Ministry of Transport has issued a seven-day ultimatum to roadside traders operating along the Abakpa Nike axis of the state to vacate roadways and other areas obstructing the free flow of traffic.
The ministry also warned motorists and tricycle operators against driving against traffic, saying offenders would face strict enforcement measures, including vehicle impoundment and fines.
The State Commissioner for Transport, Dr Obi Ozor, issued the warning in a statement by the ministry’s Public Relations Officer, Mrs Chinwendu Odumegwu, in Enugu on Wednesday.
Ozor said the ministry had commenced a sensitisation campaign aimed at improving traffic management and promoting safer road use across the Abakpa Nike axis.
He said the exercise covered major traffic corridors, including Ukwu Aki, Texaco, Nowas, T-Junction and Nkwo, where traffic violations, roadside trading and other forms of road obstruction had continued to impede the smooth movement of vehicles and pedestrians.
According to the commissioner, drivers and tricycle riders were sensitised on the dangers and penalties associated with driving against traffic, while roadside traders were given seven days to remove their activities from roadways and other obstructed spaces.
He explained that the ongoing exercise was primarily intended to educate and sensitise residents and road users, but warned that enforcement and prosecution of offenders would commence immediately after the expiration of the grace period.
The commissioner urged motorists, traders and residents in the area to cooperate with the state government’s efforts to improve traffic flow, enhance road safety and make Abakpa Nike more accessible.
“One-way driving is a death trap. Keep to your lane and keep the roads clear,” Ozor cautioned.
