By Juliana Nwachukwu
The Executive Mayor of Onitsha South Local Government Area(LGA), Hon. Chief Ikechukwu Mofunanya (Ezeoba), has warned clothes hawkers operating at Ochanja Market against trading on roads and blocking access to shops, stressing the need for orderliness and respect for designated trading spaces.
The mayor issued the warning during an inspection visit to the market on Oct. 29, represented by the LGA’s Legal Adviser, Barr. Stanley Okafor, Esq., and the Chief of Staff, Barr. Kenechukwu Aguejiofor, Esq.
He cautioned that indiscriminate hawking and roadside trading obstruct the movement of vehicles and pedestrians, contribute to traffic congestion and disrupt commercial activities within the market.
The mayor expressed concern that the practice could undermine the businesses of shop owners who pay for and operate from designated trading premises, as hawkers occupying access routes and spaces in front of shops make it difficult for customers to reach them.
During the visit, he urged traders to conduct their businesses responsibly, respect other people’s business spaces and avoid activities that compromise the safety and convenience of market users.
It stressed that maintaining an organised market requires the cooperation of all traders and stakeholders, adding that everyone must play a role in ensuring that Ochanja Market remains accessible and conducive to business.
The Mofunanya led administration reaffirmed its commitment to restoring order in public spaces across Onitsha South, protecting legitimate business interests and creating a safer, cleaner and more organised environment for traders, customers and visitors.
Juliana Nwachukwu is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
#OnitshaSouth #MarketOrderliness #BusinessEnvironment
