Ogun warns transport unions against encroaching on reclaimed road setback

The Ogun State Government has issued a stern warning to transport unions operating along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, especially those in Isheri and Kara, cautioning them not to encroach upon recently reclaimed road setback areas by transforming them into unauthorised parking spaces.

The government stated that these actions amount to a challenge to its authority, despite numerous meetings and warnings issued to transport unions by government officials.

The state government urged the transporters to vacate the areas and utilise government-designated parks.

This directive comes as the recovered setback, resulting from the earlier demolition of shanties and makeshift structures, is slated for beautification to showcase the state’s prominent industrial status.

The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Environment, Alhaji Farook Akintunde, delivered the warning while leading the Ogun State Special Taskforce on Environmental Compliance and Enforcement to Isheri and Kara.

He underscored the importance of these reclaimed areas in the government’s developmental initiatives and expressed disappointment that transport unions had ignored prior warnings, opting instead to occupy the cleared spaces.

Akintunde condemned their actions as not only irritating and obstructive but also as a direct challenge to the government’s commitment to fulfilling its legitimate responsibilities. He emphasised that the state government would not tolerate transporters causing disturbances through illegal parking, deeming it a direct affront to constituted authority.

“We are issuing them a final warning. Any vehicle parked in these unauthorised areas or along the roadsides in the designated zones will be impounded. While we support their business activities, they must operate within government-designated parks and refrain from becoming a source of nuisance, as everyone is subject to the law,” Akintunde said.

He assured the public that the affected areas would soon transform in line with Ogun State’s standards, as beautification efforts were scheduled to commence. Akintunde urged public cooperation to ensure the success of the beautification project.

In response, Alhaji Audu Dagwa, Chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, Isheri-Olofin Branch, apologised on behalf of its members. He assured the state government of their cooperation and pledged that any member caught operating in the unauthorised park would face appropriate sanctions.