The Enugu state chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) on Wednesday, said it would provide affordable shops for road-side and street traders in Enugu and its environs.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the Enugu State Government recently banned road-side and street trading in Enugu city and warned that it would deal decisively with offenders.
According to the government, the activities of the traders hinder free-flow of traffic and cause hardship to residents.
The Chairman of ALGON in the chapter, Chief Cornelius Nnaji, told NAN that the association would assist councils in Enugu municipality to resettle the traders into shops in markets in Enugu and environs.
“We would collaborate with the state government to ensure that the ban on road-side and street trading is totally enforced.
“We have discussed with market leaders and found out that there are a lot of empty shops in most markets in the municipality, while some traders still endanger their lives on the road.
“So, we are discussing with the market leaders on ways to cut the amount of rent of these shops as well as make their payment flexible to accommodate all these road-side and street traders.
“Where possible, the road-side and street traders could pair to have a shop, which would keep them out of the road,’’ he said.
Nnaji, who is the Caretaker Chairman of Enugu East Local Government Area, said that road-side and street traders take daily risks of possible accident resulting from vehicular break failure.
“ALGON and the three municipal council areas would commence an extensive sensitization to traders on the need to keep away from the road.
“We care about their safety and welfare as well as for them to stay alive to take care of their families and loved ones,’’ he said.
NAN reports that Enugu and environs constitute three council areas – Enugu North, Enugu South and Enugu East. (NAN)