By David Adeoye
The Oyo State Government has given an ultimatum to roadside traders, and those selling in containers along Airport Road, Old Ife Road and Onipepeye areas of Ibadan to relocate their wares.
The directive is contained in a statement issued in Ibadan on Tuesday by the Chief Press Secretary to Gov Seyi Makinde, Dr Suleimon Olanrewaju.
According to the statement, the government gave the traders two weeks to put an end to roadside trading on the axis.
The government said having built markets and other closed environments in various parts of the city, it could no longer tolerate trading on roadside or placement of container shops on drainages.
It noted that roadside traders were exposed to serious dangers and avoidable environmental hazards.
The government added that it has a duty to protect the citizens from all manner of danger, as a responsible government.
It also stated that trading on walkways could lead to damaging public infrastructure, blocking drainage system and putting the state at the risk of flooding.
It said that roadside trading would deprive the state of benefits of its investment in the promotion of tourism, stating that such sights turn off tourists.
The government urged all affected people to comply with the directive, which expires on Oct. 27, stressing that failure to do so would result in the enforcement of extant rules in the state.
It said this might lead to not just the confiscation of wares but also the prosecution of offenders.
The government called for the cooperation of all and sundry to achieve sustainable development in the state.
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