Ogun State Government has issued strong warning to traders, vendors, artisans and motor dealers against occupying pedestrian walkways and road side setbacks during the Yuletide celebrations and beyond, for their business activities.

Anyone of them already occupying such spaces has been asked to vacate them or be ready to face penalties.

This warning was issued over the weekend by the most senior officer at the Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency, TRACE, Cdr Elias Omonayajo in Abeokuta capital of the state.

Cdr Omonayajo who frowned at such practices said turning walkways to business space is illegal and creates traffic bottlenecks which could lead to accidents, and inconvenience for other road users including shoppers.

While listing such areas where the practice is prevalent, he mentioned Pansheke, Kuto, Oke Ilewo, Ijaiye, Omida, Iyana Mortuary, Sango Ota, Tollgate, Ijako, Iyana Iyana Iyesi, Iju Atan, Sagamu, Ijebu Ode among others.

He advised such traders to relocate to designated market spaces immediately, especially during the festive period, as such illegal markets would not be tolerated.

Cdr Omonayajo warned that non-compliance would be met with fines and court appearances.

Meanwhile the Ogun State Government has lauded TRACE’s efforts to improve road safety and public order, while reiterating its resolve to continue to improve infrastructure and ensuring safe movement of people and vehicles throughout the state, being the gateway state to other states.