~ Roadside mechanics, traders given 72 hours to vacate public roads
Tony Okafor, Awka
In a sweeping policy that is set to reshape the transport sector in Anambra State, the state government has dissolved and proscribed all existing transport unions and associations, announcing that only government-approved umbrella bodies will henceforth operate across the state.
The unprecedented directive, contained in a Public Service Announcement issued by the Ministry of Transport and dated July 24, 2026, takes immediate effect and affects commercial motorcycle operators, tricycle riders, taxi drivers, bus operators, mini-truck owners, tippers, lorries and truck operators.
The announcement, signed by the Commissioner for Transport, Hon. Edward Ibuzo, said the action was taken pursuant to powers conferred on the Commissioner under the Anambra State Road Traffic Law of 1991.
According to the notice, the Ministry will soon unveil new transport unions that will serve as the only State Government-recognized umbrella bodies for all categories of commercial transport operators.
“All transporters in the State are to note the foregoing for strict compliance,” the statement warned.
The decision marks one of the most far-reaching government interventions in the transport sector in recent years and is expected to significantly alter the operations of long-established transport unions across Anambra.
In a related development, the Ministry also issued a 72-hour ultimatum to roadside mechanics, artisans, traders and owners of abandoned or unserviceable vehicles occupying public roads and streets to vacate the affected locations.
The directive orders operators of makeshift mechanic workshops, vulcanizers, traders and owners of broken-down or abandoned vehicles to remove their vehicles, wares and equipment from public roads within three days.
The government warned that defaulters would face sanctions, including arrest, prosecution, payment of fines and the towing of offending vehicles at the owners’ expense.
It added that upon the expiration of the notice, the Ministry’s Compliance and Enforcement Team would commence full-scale monitoring and enforcement across the state.
The twin directives signal the Soludo administration’s latest move to restore order on public roads, eliminate illegal road encroachments and strengthen government control over transport administration in Anambra State.
