The Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (ORLEA) has commenced a large-scale sensitization campaign against street trading across major markets in the state.
The initiative, which is a precursor to a forthcoming enforcement drive, aims to curb indiscriminate trading activities that obstruct pedestrian movement, compromise sanitation, and degrade urban infrastructure.
The campaign was officially flagged off at Bodija Market in Ibadan by ORLEA Chairperson, retired Justice Aderonke Aderemi, who underscored the necessity of fostering a structured and sustainable market environment.
Speaking to traders and stakeholders, she highlighted the far-reaching consequences of street trading, including traffic congestion, environmental hazards, and safety risks.
“Our markets must be orderly, clean, and conducive to business operations, street trading contributes to disorderliness, indiscriminate waste disposal, and an unhygienic environment, all of which violate our environmental laws. The State Government is more determined than ever to enforce compliance and ensure a well-regulated commercial landscape.“
Acknowledging the concerns raised by traders, particularly about their livelihoods, Aderemi disclosed that Governor Seyi Makinde has mandated ORLEA to collaborate with local government authorities to identify alternative trading locations. The objective, she explained, is to provide safer, more organized spaces for affected vendors before strict enforcement begins.
“Governor Makinde is fully aware of the economic implications of this policy, which is why we are engaging with stakeholders to find solutions that balance enforcement with the need for sustainable livelihoods,” Aderemi assured.
She further cautioned traders against resistance to the forthcoming enforcement measures, reiterating that non-compliance will attract severe penalties. ORLEA, in conjunction with relevant agencies, will ensure that all violators face appropriate legal consequences to deter further infractions.
As part of the campaign, ORLEA is deploying a mix of awareness programs, dialogue sessions, and media outreach to educate the public on the dangers of street trading and the benefits of compliance. The agency is also working closely with market leaders, community representatives, and environmental agencies to ensure that the transition to designated trading zones is seamless and effective.
The Oyo State Government has over the years made significant investments in market infrastructure and urban renewal projects, aimed at modernizing the state’s commercial framework. However, the persistence of street trading has hindered these efforts, prompting a more assertive approach to enforcement.
With this sensitization drive, ORLEA hopes to foster voluntary compliance before enforcement operations commence in earnest. The agency has also urged traders and residents to support the government’s vision of a cleaner, safer, and more organized Oyo State.
