The Ogun State Government has renewed its resolve to clamp down on roadside trading across major highways following the fatal accident at the Ota tollgate area in Ado Odo Ota Local Government Area.
The move comes in the wake of the recent crash which claimed several lives and destroyed property at the busy corridor in Ota.
Speaking during an on the spot assessment of the scene on behalf of Governor Dapo Abiodun, the Deputy Governor, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, described indiscriminate roadside trading as a dangerous practice that exposes residents to avoidable risks.
She said the government had consistently provided designated markets and stalls to promote safer commercial activities, expressing concern that some traders still operate along highways despite repeated warnings.
“While accidents can happen, we must adopt behavioural practices that significantly reduce their occurrence and impact. We are calling on our people to desist from street trading for their own safety,” she said.
Salako Oyedele noted that the incident was particularly painful as it occurred in her homestead. She conveyed the condolences of the state government to families who lost loved ones and assured that survivors were receiving necessary medical attention. She added that the government would intensify preventive measures to forestall a recurrence.
The deputy governor commended the prompt intervention of the Federal Road Safety Corps, the Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corps, local government officials, road unions and the traditional institution led by the Abdulkabir Adeyemi Obalanlege for their swift response in managing the situation.
In his remarks, Obalanlege condemned roadside trading, stating that the tragic loss could have been avoided if residents had complied with earlier directives. He sympathised with the bereaved families and prayed for the repose of the deceased.
The government reiterated its commitment to enforcing regulations that safeguard lives and property, urging residents to patronise approved markets and shun trading along busy highways.
