The Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA), in collaboration with security operatives, has intensified enforcement against street trading and the illegal occupation of public spaces at Gate, Bodija, and Ojoo markets in Ibadan.
The operation, which was carried out during the official closing hours of yesterday, became necessary towards ensuring compliance with the laws regulating trading activities and the use of roads, walkways, and other public spaces in the state.
The enforcement followed observations that many traders still display and sell goods on roads, walkways, drainage channels, and road setbacks, despite the provision of adequate market facilities by the Oyo State Government.
The Authority expressed concern over the continued disregard for designated trading spaces, noting that government-provided markets were meant to enable legitimate business without encroaching on roads and public spaces.
During the exercise, the Authority impounded substantial quantities of goods, both perishable and non-perishable, from locations where trading violated the law.
OYRLEA stressed that the exercise was not to frustrate legitimate business owners but to ensure that traders operate within legal boundaries while safeguarding the rights of motorists, pedestrians, and the general public.
Consequently, the Authority called on men and women to desist from trading on roads, walkways, drainage channels, and setbacks and to utilize the designated spaces provided for commercial activities.
OYRLEA further warned that enforcement would be sustained across the affected markets and other parts of the state until there is significant compliance with Oyo State laws.
The Authority urged traders and members of the public to cooperate with enforcement personnel, adding that maintaining orderly markets and accessible public spaces remains a collective responsibility.
Packaged by Adekunle Adegboyega
