Kogi, FRSC Warns Traders, Motorists Against Market Traffic Obstruction
The Kogi State Government and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) have warned traders, motorists, and transport operators against activities causing traffic congestion around the International Market in Lokoja.
The warning was issued during a joint road safety sensitisation exercise conducted on Wednesday by the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Ahmed Ododo on Road Safety, Dr. Suberu Yusuf-John, in collaboration with the Kogi State Sector Commander of the FRSC, Mr. Lawan Lalu-Fagge, and the Market Task Force.
Speaking during the exercise, Yusuf-John said the intervention became necessary following the increasing encroachment on roadways by traders and drivers, resulting in traffic obstruction and disruption of free vehicular movement around the market.
According to him, the sensitisation campaign was aimed at improving road safety, reducing traffic congestion, and restoring orderliness within and around the market environment, which has become a major traffic bottleneck in Lokoja.
He advised motorists and commercial operators to make use of designated parking spaces and approved loading points provided for business activities.
The governor’s aide also warned truck drivers against offloading goods by the roadside, stressing that offenders risk sanctions under the law.
“Truck drivers who are in the habit of offloading goods by the roadside must discontinue the practice together with owners of such goods so as not to face the wrath of the law,” he said.
Yusuf-John further directed shop owners displaying wares on road shoulders and pedestrian walkways to remove them in the interest of public safety and smooth traffic flow.
He explained that the exercise was designed to educate traders, drivers, and other road users on the dangers and traffic implications associated with roadside trading and indiscriminate parking, particularly during market days.
Commercial drivers and tricycle operators were also cautioned against picking up or dropping passengers outside approved parks and loading points.
The SSA noted that the sensitisation team engaged stakeholders on the importance of traffic discipline, compliance with road safety regulations, and the need to maintain orderliness around the market vicinity.
He disclosed that, following resolutions reached during an April 15 stakeholders’ meeting held at the Government House in Lokoja, the state government would establish a task force to oversee traffic management operations across major commercial centres in the state.
According to him, the ongoing sensitisation exercise serves as a follow-up to the meeting and is intended to prepare stakeholders ahead of the commencement of full traffic management enforcement operations.
As part of the exercise, Yusuf-John and the FRSC sector commander also inspected designated parking facilities around the market to assess their suitability for effective traffic coordination.
The officials observed the need for the installation of poles and caution tapes to properly demarcate parking areas and improve traffic control during market days.
The joint exercise, according to the organisers, reflects the commitment of the Kogi State Government, FRSC, and market stakeholders to promoting safer road use, protecting lives, and ensuring smooth vehicular movement around the International Market in Lokoja.
