OYRTMA issues final warning to roadside traders at Ogunpa Market

By Adejayan Gbenga –

The Oyo State Government has issued a final warning to traders at the Ogunpa Central International Market in Ibadan to stop displaying goods along the roadside and maintain proper setbacks for pedestrian movement or risk sanctions.

The warning came during a sensitization campaign led by the Chairman of the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA), Major Adekoya Adesagba (rtd.), who condemned the persistent use of roadways for trading as a traffic obstruction and safety hazard.

Adesagba stated that roadside trading disrupts traffic and endangers both traders and customers. He stressed the government’s commitment to creating a safer and more orderly trading environment in line with Governor Seyi Makinde’s directive to clear obstructions from public roads.

“We are here to educate traders about the government’s plan to remove illegal trading from roadways around the Ogunpa Market. We’ve advised them to maintain a reasonable distance from the road. Roadside trading will no longer be tolerated,” he said.

He announced that full enforcement would begin on July 21, 2025, targeting illegal parking, roadside vending, and related activities. The enforcement will involve collaboration with other relevant agencies.

President-General of the Ogunpa Central International Market Traders Association, Prince Gbenga Atitebi, expressed support for the government’s efforts, acknowledging that roadside trading has deterred customers from patronizing the market.

Atitebi pledged full cooperation with the state authorities to ensure compliance, while encouraging fellow traders to embrace the initiative for long-term benefit.

In her remarks, the Iyaloja of Ibadan Southwest LGA, High Chief Kudirat Aloba, appealed to the government for continued support to ensure smooth enforcement and lasting discipline among roadside traders.