Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has ordered the closing down of illegal motor parks in the capital city of Owerri. The governor expressed his concern over the activities of touts who have been using these parks to harass motorists and commuters, tarnishing the reputation of his administration.
Speaking through the Commissioner for Transport, Rex Anunobi, Governor Uzodimma addressed stakeholders in the transport sector during a meeting in Owerri. He announced that a toll-free number would be provided to the public, allowing them to report any misconduct by traffic officers. Additionally, a monitoring team would be established to apprehend touts who illegally impound vehicles, particularly those forcefully confiscating vehicle plate numbers.
“The governor has expressed deep concerns regarding the shortcomings within the transport sector, such as the presence of illegal parks that undermine urban renewal efforts,” stated Anunobi. “He is particularly displeased with the activities of non-state actors causing problems, inflicting pain on people, and tarnishing the government’s image. The governor has made it clear that such activities must come to an end once and for all.”
Anunobi explained that designated traffic enforcement officers would clamp down on vehicles parked in unauthorized areas, with appropriate fines payable to the Treasury Single Account (TSA) before release. Furthermore, all government-approved bus stops that have been converted into unauthorized loading points, commonly referred to as “pits,” within a 100-meter radius of the specified intersections and roundabouts in Owerri Metropolis, are now closed.
He emphasized that taxis and mini-buses must adhere to the directive and only pick up and drop off passengers at other government-approved and designated bus stops within the city. Violators will face prosecution by the Traffic Mobile Court attached to the Imo State Traffic Management Authority.