The Governor of Abia State, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, has directed that all street traders, commercial tricycle (Keke) operators and bus drivers loading along roads under construction relocate immediately to safer designated areas.
Ikpeazu, who expressed displeasure with the current situation where street traders and commercial vehicle operators have taken over roads under construction, including Brass-Faulks Road in Aba, which he visited on Friday, stressed that it is unheard of that street traders will take over roads under construction without consideration for their safety and that of members of the public.
He therefore called on street traders along Faulks Road, particularly the Ariaria end, and all other roads under construction in the state to move to free zones and other recognized markets to give way to construction companies on project sites.
He has also directed that bus drivers and Keke operators move into designated parks to load and offload passengers and goods.
Ikpeazu said for the safety of commercial transporters, traders and commuters, it is wrong and risky to engage in commercial activities along roads that are under construction.
Operatives of Traffic and Indiscipline Management Agency of Abia State and other relevant agencies of government have been instructed to take necessary measures, within the law, to ensure compliance with this directive.