Obio-Akpor Council Expands Street Trading Ban to Rumuokwurusi Oil Mill Axis

The Obio-Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State has widened its clampdown on street trading, extending the existing ban to the busy Rumuokwurusi Oil Mill Market corridor, a major entry point into the local government and the Port Harcourt metropolis.

The directive, announced by the Chairman of the council, Gift Worlu, takes effect from Friday, January 23, 2026, and covers all forms of roadside and informal trading in and around the Rumuokwurusi Oil Mill area. The council said the restriction will be enforced round-the-clock, including weekends and public holidays.

According to a statement issued by the Chairman’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, the decision followed repeated violations of earlier directives aimed at restoring order and easing congestion in strategic locations across the local government.

“There will be no waivers, exemptions or designated trading hours in the affected areas,” the statement said, stressing that the ban applies to everyone without exception.

The council warned that anyone found trading within the prohibited zones would be arrested and prosecuted in line with existing laws. To ensure compliance, all security agencies operating within Obio-Akpor have been directed to work with enforcement teams to fully implement the directive.

The local government urged residents and traders to cooperate with the policy, describing it as part of broader efforts to improve traffic flow, enhance safety and maintain a cleaner urban environment. Officials insist the measure is aimed at long-term public benefit and should be treated as a final notice to all affected traders.