…Orders relocation of roadside traders

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, Friday commissioned 69 lock-up shops, 108 open stalls, a motor park, road network and a modern restaurant constructed by the Ibadan North-East Local Government at the Agodi-Gate Market in Ibadan.

The governor, who spoke at the commissioning ceremony held at Araromi Market, Gate, said his administration would continue to promote people-oriented governance and support development initiatives at the local government level.

Following the commissioning of the facilities, Makinde directed that roadside traders operating around the Agodi-Gate Market be relocated into the newly constructed shops at no cost.

He said the decision was part of his administration’s policy of providing alternatives before restricting roadside trading, noting that many petty traders depend on their businesses to support their families and educate their children.

Makinde said: “I am glad today that we have restored the glory of this park through the Ibadan North-East Local Government. As for the traders who sell their wares on the roadside, your names have been properly documented and the shops will be given to you free of charge.

“Report anyone who tries to collect money from you. Move away from the road and enter the park. We have decided that we will always make provisions before prohibiting roadside trading.

“What people fail to realise is that these traders use part of their little profit to send their children to school. So, we have done this project to ease their burden.”

The governor commended the Executive Chairman of Ibadan North-East Local Government, Ibrahim Akintayo, for executing the projects, describing them as evidence of the positive impact of collaboration between the state and local governments.

He said the new market and motor park had helped restore the commercial hub to its former vibrancy while providing traders and commuters with a safer and more conducive environment.

Makinde urged traders, motorists and other users of the facilities to ensure their proper maintenance and responsible use.

The commissioning came barely 24 hours after the governor inaugurated a road network, fire service building and an ultramodern car park with shops at the Bodija International Market, constructed by the Ibadan North Local Government.

Earlier, Akintayo, in his welcome address, appreciated Makinde for his commitment to people-oriented policies, saying the governor’s approach had encouraged local governments to undertake projects with direct impact on residents.

According to him, the projects would promote orderly transportation, stimulate commercial activities, create employment opportunities, improve sanitation and provide a more conducive environment for businesses.

He added that the projects would also enhance revenue generation for the local government.

Akintayo urged transport unions, market associations, business owners and other users of the facilities to ensure proper maintenance, prevent vandalism, comply with operational guidelines and maintain orderliness within the market.

In his vote of thanks, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Ademola Ojo, commended the governor for his continued support for local councils and appreciated stakeholders who contributed to the successful completion of the projects.

The event was attended by the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Abdulraheem Adebayo Lawal; Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Musibau Babatunde; Chief of Staff, Segun Ogunwuyi; commissioners; Chairman of the Association of Local Government Chairmen in Oyo State, Sikiru Sanda; Babaloja-General of Oyo State, Y.K. Abass; market leaders, traditional rulers, religious leaders and other dignitaries.