Fidelia Soriwei, Abuja
The Ondo State Government has directed owners of abandoned heavy-duty vehicles, construction equipment, trucks, trailers and large watercraft obstructing roads and waterways across the state to remove them within seven days or risk forfeiture.
The directive, which takes effect from September 30 and expires on October 7, 2026, was announced on Wednesday by the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on Emergency Response and Safety Enforcement, Wellington Adebawo.
Speaking with journalists in Akure, Adebawo said the move followed increasing concerns over public safety caused by abandoned vehicles, machinery and vessels left unattended in various parts of the state.
According to him, the government has already completed a statewide survey to identify abandoned heavy-duty vehicles, equipment and other obstructions across the 18 local government areas.
He explained that the exercise was aimed at reducing safety risks and preventing accidents on roads and waterways.
“The government has already carried out a comprehensive survey of abandoned heavy-duty vehicles, equipment and other related obstructions across the 18 local government areas of Ondo State, as part of efforts to identify and address potential safety hazards across the state,” he said.
Adebawo urged companies, businesses and individuals whose trucks, trailers, construction equipment and other machinery have been abandoned in public spaces to relocate them immediately to appropriate locations.
He also extended the directive to owners of abandoned boats, barges and commercial watercraft operating on the state’s waterways.
“Similarly, owners of abandoned large boats, barges and other commercial watercraft on the state’s waterways are advised to retrieve and relocate their vessels to designated and safe locations within the seven-day period,” he stated.
The governor’s aide noted that abandoned vehicles and equipment often obstruct traffic, reduce visibility and increase the risk of accidents for motorists, pedestrians and other road users.
He stressed that the directive is intended to safeguard lives and property rather than target legitimate businesses and operators.
Adebawo warned that any owner who fails to comply within the stipulated period would face enforcement action, including the removal and impoundment of the affected vehicles, machinery and watercraft.
“All abandoned vehicles, boats or equipment on the roads or waterways should be removed or risk forfeiture. This order takes effect from Wednesday, September 30, 2026, and expires on Wednesday, October 7, 2026.
“There shall be no extension or grace period beyond the seven-day deadline, we urge all affected owners and operators to use the stipulated period to comply with the directive and avoid enforcement measures,” he said.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Aiyedatiwa administration to improving emergency response, safety enforcement and preventive measures aimed at protecting lives and property across Ondo State.
