Hon. Anietie Eka, SSA Idorenyin Raphael, and Market Executives Unite to Tackle Street Trading and Illegal Motor Parks in Uyo

Hon. Anietie Eka, SSA Idorenyin Raphael, and Market Executives Unite to Tackle Street Trading and Illegal Motor Parks in Uyo

As part of his concerted efforts to address the growing challenges of street trading and illegal motor parks within the capital city, the Chairman of the Uyo Capital City Development Authority (UCCDA), Hon. Anietie Eka, engaged in a high-level discussion with the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Governor on Trade and Market Matters, Hon. Idorenyin Raphael, and key market executives.

The meeting, which took place at the Authority's headquarters, brought together stakeholders from major markets in Uyo Senatorial District to deliberate on the dangers posed by roadside trading and unauthorized motor parks. The gathering underscored the government’s commitment to restoring order in the capital city and ensuring a safer, cleaner, and more business-friendly environment.

In his remarks, Hon. Anietie Eka lamented the increasing presence of traders displaying their wares on walkways and roadsides, obstructing free movement and exposing both sellers and buyers to avoidable risks. He noted that while trading is a legitimate economic activity, conducting business in unauthorized spaces disrupts traffic flow and poses security threats.

He expressed gratitude to his boss and father, Pastor Umo Eno, Ph.D., for the opportunity and trust given to him to lead the affairs of the UCCDA. He also applauded his predecessor, the Secretary to the State Government, Otuekong Prince Enobong Uwah, whom he credited with laying a solid foundation for him to build upon. Additionally, he thanked the SSA to the Governor, Hon. Idorenyin Raphael, and other executive members for taking the time to attend this crucial meeting.

He stated, "The government has provided designated markets with adequate facilities for traders, yet some prefer to sell on the streets, putting their lives and those of pedestrians at risk. We must put an end to this indiscriminate practice, but we will do it amicably. Our Governor is a very compassionate man. That is why I have given a seven day grace before the commencement of our clearing exercise to allow for more consultations with stakeholders. I have met with the traditional rulers, and I will engage LG chairmen of the affected areas, all in a bid to eliminate this menace and restore the glory of our city. I need your cooperation."

Similarly, Hon. Idorenyin Raphael decried the proliferation of illegal markets, which have become hotspots for criminal activities, including pickpocketing, drug abuse, and extortion. In his words, "The government supports traders, and we wholeheartedly back the government's intention to stop street trading. We have already signed a pact with the government to that effect. Stopping roadside trading is non-negotiable; it is illegal and must be stopped. Each market stops where the fence stops. Any trading beyond the fence is illegal and has led to accidents and deaths. It is our collective responsibility to end roadside trading, and we are in full support of this initiative."

In their separate remarks, the Board of Trustees Chairman of Itam Market, Mr. Godwin Enefiok Ebong, pleaded for a little more time to complete the ongoing renovation at the market but expressed full support for the government’s initiative to end roadside trading. The Chairman of Akpanandem Market, Mr. Joseph Peter, criticized the attitude of some traders. He stressed that the government should address those who sell government roads to traders and issue tickets to them. He argued that once the root cause is addressed, traders will move into the available spaces within the markets.

Elder Idongesit Sam also emphasized that there is a designated and functional night market, and traders who sell on the roads should be relocated inside the market. He further suggested that security operatives be stationed in these areas to enforce compliance.

Unanimously, all stakeholders condemned roadside trading and pledged to support efforts to rid the city center of this menace, describing it as an eyesore. They also appealed to the government to make the clearing exercise a continuous process.

The meeting had in attendance, the Secretary/ Head of Administration of UCCDA, Admin. Anietie Akpan, the head of Accounts, Mr David Ekpo and key Staff and Aids of the Chairman.