Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has ordered an immediate clampdown on all illegal garages.

Abiodun stated that the operations of these garages are not only illegal but also serve to extort commuters, drivers, and other res

idents through excessive charges and unexplained levies. He emphasised that this action comes at a time when the state government is striving to reduce transportation costs for the benefit of its citizens.

The order follows the recent shutdown of two illegal garages at the NNPC Junction and opposite the June 12 Cultural Centre in Abeokuta by the State Taskforce on Environmental Compliance and Enforcement, led by Chairman Alhaji Farook Akintunde.

These garages were closed for operating without authorisation and for creating environmental nuisances by occupying roadsides.

Commending the task force, Abiodun directed that the crackdown be extended statewide, focusing on the Mowe-Ibafo axis and Sango-Ota. He noted that in addition to exploiting commuters, these illegal garages pose significant security risks, as they often serve as hideouts for criminals due to the shanties and makeshift structures around them.

“As a responsible government, we cannot sit back and allow these garage operators to expose our people to unnecessary danger. Furthermore, this is a critical time when our people deserve every relief measure that can ease the current economic challenges facing the country,” the Governor said.

Abiodun also urged residents to avoid using illegal garages for their safety, recommending that they use government-recognised garages and board government CNG buses, which offer lower fares and greater comfort.