Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has asserted that street trading and unauthorized dumping of waste on road medians are unacceptable behaviors that must be eliminated within the state.
Makinde made this declaration while addressing attendees at the commissioning of the Idi Ape and Civic Centre junction improvement projects at Agodi Gate on Friday. The ceremony was attended by Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State, former Military Administrator of Oyo State, Major General Oladayo Popoola, Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal, and PDP Deputy National Chairman (South), Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja.
In his speech, Makinde emphasized that the upgraded junctions would alleviate the commuting time for residents traveling within the city. He explained that the initiative aimed to restore orderliness to these areas, emphasizing his directive to enforce strict penalties on those engaged in street trading and littering road medians.
Makinde further stated that the 700 street traders displaced during the project’s implementation would be provided with free stalls in the newly constructed market as part of the initiative. He underscored the significance of this development in enhancing the overall aesthetics and functionality of the surroundings.
He remarked, “We are sending a clear message, and residents of Ibadan are likely aware of the disorderliness this area used to experience. With these improvements, we are bringing order to this locality.”
“The stalls provided here are for those previously trading by the roadside, and they will be allocated free of charge. No fees will be imposed. This means that 700 individuals will transition from the streets to this designated area. Therefore, we express our gratitude to God.”
“We have witnessed the transformation of this environment, and our intention is to maintain its current state. Street trading and illegal dumping on road medians are behaviors we, as citizens, must discontinue.”
“I have instructed that anyone found engaging in such activities in this vicinity should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”