Thelma Osatohanmwen
In a bid to address the hazards and challenges posed by street trading, the Ekiti State Government has urged traders to relocate to new market spaces provided by the government.
NEWSTODAYNG gathered that, the State Government has invested in the development of alternative market spaces within Ado Ekiti, including the Agric Olope market, Awedele off Iyin road, and the Tosin Aluko market along Ikere road.
These markets are equipped with proper sanitation facilities, well-maintained access roads, and enhanced security measures to ensure the safety and convenience of traders and customers alike.
Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun, the State Commissioner for Information, emphasized the detrimental effects of illegal street trading on traffic flow, waste management, and public safety.
He issued a stern warning to market traders against displaying their goods on roadsides, particularly in the state capital, Ado Ekiti.
Olatunbosun highlighted the pressing concerns associated with street trading, including traffic congestion, poor waste management leading to environmental degradation, and the heightened risk of accidents.
Futher speaking, he stressed that the accumulation of environmental waste from street trading often obstructs drainage systems, exacerbating flooding issues during rainfall and causing damage to roads.
Encouraging market traders to embrace the relocation initiative, Olatunbosun emphasized the government’s commitment to improving their overall welfare and economic prospects.
He urged traders to seize the opportunity to transition from hazardous street locations to more conducive environments provided by the government.
Also the government spokesperson cautioned that Environmental Officials would conduct regular inspections of the markets to enforce compliance with sanitation standards and regulations as culprits found violating environmental laws would face prosecution according to the state’s legal framework.