Dipo Olowookere
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
It is getting hot for street traders in Oyo State as the state government is clamping down on them in a bid to get rid of illegal trading.
A few weeks ago, the state government was at various markets to inform the traders that street trading was now prohibited and a punishable offence according to the environmental laws of the state.
A statement by the Director of Press and Public Relations at the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, Mr Rotimi Babalola, said the new development would not be relaxed.
He quoted the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, Mrs Modupe Adeleye, as saying that the move was in furtherance of the state government’s commitment to stamp out street trading on the state highways and other major streets in the metropolis.
Mrs Adeleye added that the state government places a premium on the safety of lives and properties, noting that, “It is no longer news to anyone that the Oyo State Government will no longer tolerate street trading in the State and the ministry would be enforcing the law in full force, henceforth.”
She said the strict enforcement exercise, which has commenced in Ibadan, is an implementation of a long-existing enactment by the state government on Street Trading and Illegal Market Prohibition Law, which prescribes specific punishment for both the buyer and the seller of any goods or services on the streets.
Speaking further, Mrs Adeleye appealed to residents to ensure proper disposal of refuse in the state, as the Oyo State Government will not tolerate illegal disposal of refuse by residents.
She enjoined market leaders in the state to ensure members adhere strictly to the environmental laws, urging them to engage government-approved Waste Management consultant, Mottainai Recycling Ltd.
