In a decisive move to restore order in Ota, the Olota of Ota, Oba (Prof) Abdulkabir Obalanlege, has spearheaded a joint task force operation targeting illegal traders and roadside obstructions along the Sango and Ojuore axis in Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area.
The initiative, aimed at tackling persistent traffic congestion that has long afflicted the metropolis, saw participation from multiple agencies, including the Federal Road Safety Corps, Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Navy, NSCDC, TRACE, and the DSS.
Also joining the operation were the Chairman of Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government, Comrade Wasiu Lawal, along with council sanitary inspectors.
Oba Obalanlege stressed that the exercise went beyond mere road clearance, highlighting the broader goal of safeguarding both the safety and economic well-being of Ota
He expressed concern over traders occupying the carriageway with their goods, creating severe traffic bottlenecks and causing commuters to lose significant man-hours.
“We cannot allow the lawlessness of a few to jeopardise the movement and safety of the many,” the Olota said, while issuing a stern warning to transport union members and Okada operators to vacate the highways immediately.
To ensure that traders are not simply displaced, the monarch directed the Iyaloja of Otta to oversee the prompt occupation of the designated market land at Sango.
“This move is intended to provide a structured environment for commerce while keeping the transit corridors free of encumbrances,” he added.
Sector Commander of the Ogun Sector Command, Corps Commander Akinwuni Fasakin, confirmed that operations would persist to prevent traders from returning to the roads.
Represented by FRSC Corridor 14 Commander, DCC Yinka Akande, and Acting Unit Commander, CRC Wasiu Ogunmefun, Fasakin explained that the week-long operation would receive reinforcements from military personnel stationed at Owode Barracks.
“To prevent the return of illegal traders, the operation will continue throughout the week with reinforced support from the Owode Barracks military personnel,” he said.
The joint task force has urged residents and business owners to adhere to the new directives to ensure smoother traffic flow and a cleaner environment.
