The Abia State Government has mandated all street traders in the state, especially on the newly-reconstructed roads in Aba and Umuahia, to vacate the streets before July 1st or face heavy sanctions.
This was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works, Izuchukwu Onwughara, on behalf of the Commissioner, Otumchere Oti.

The government also frowned at those dumping refuse into drainage systems and activities of mechanics using part of the roads as their workshops.

According to the statement, heavy sanctions await anyone whose activities pose a danger to the lifespan of the roads.

The statement reads, “Government is by this announcement reminding the general public that transacting business on the newly constructed and reconstruction roads in the state, and other unwholesome activities like dumping of refuse into the drainage, channelling of borehole and sewage water to the asphalted roads, and mechanics repairing vehicles along the roads are prohibited.

“Such activities will no longer be tolerated as they are detrimental to the life span of the roads.

“Consequently, the government is warning the defaulters to stop forthwith and those who display their wares on the asphalted pavement, particularly at Owerri Road in Umuahia, Kenth Road, Jubilee Road, Ngwa Road, Port Harcourt Road, Obioha Road, and Enugu Port Harcourt Expressway by Ariaria Market Junction all in Aba, to vacate the roads within seven days of this announcement or be prepared to dance the rhythm of the long arms of law.”