Obio-Akpor Shuts Down Street Trading Around Okoro Nu Odo Flyover

Authorities in Obio-Akpor Local Government Area have ordered an immediate halt to all forms of street and market trading around the Okoro Nu Odo Flyover and the Rumuodomaya Road axis, citing growing safety concerns and persistent violations of local regulations.

The directive, announced by the Council Chairman, Gift Worlu, affects traders operating along the flyover corridor up to the Obio-Akpor Council Secretariat. According to the council, the move is aimed at restoring order, improving traffic flow, and safeguarding residents and commuters who rely on the busy route daily.

Speaking through a statement he personally signed, Worlu said the council was left with no choice after repeated warnings to traders were ignored. “The activities of roadside traders have continued to obstruct vehicular and pedestrian movement, creating security risks and discomfort for road users,” he stated, adding that the affected areas had become increasingly unsafe and congested.

The chairman clarified that the ban is comprehensive, running 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including weekends and public holidays. He stressed that there would be no exemptions, grace periods, or designated trading hours within the restricted zones.

To ensure compliance, all traders and hawkers operating within the affected corridors have been directed to vacate immediately. Worlu warned that violators would face arrest and prosecution in line with existing laws. Security agencies across the local government, working alongside the council’s task force, have been mandated to enforce the directive without exception.

While announcing the crackdown, the council chairman appealed to residents for cooperation, describing the policy as part of broader efforts to maintain a clean, orderly, and secure urban environment. He urged the public to support the initiative, noting that the ban takes immediate effect and should be regarded as a final notice.

The council says the measure is intended to promote public safety and uphold the dignity of Obio-Akpor as one of Rivers State’s key metropolitan areas.