Enugu Govt Gives 5-Day Ultimatum on Abandoned vehicles, Roadside Mechanics
The Enugu State Government has issued a five-day ultimatum to owners of abandoned vehicles, roadside mechanics, artisans, and traders operating illegally along public roads to vacate the areas or face enforcement actions.
In a joint public announcement released on Wednesday, the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure and the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA) expressed concern over the rapid spread of derelict vehicles and makeshift mechanic workshops across major and minor roads in the state.
According to the statement, the proliferation of broken-down vehicles, roadside repair points, oil spills, welding activities, and other unregulated operations has led to severe deterioration of road infrastructure. Authorities noted that such activities damage asphalt surfaces, obstruct traffic flow, and expose road users to avoidable safety risks.
The agencies warned that several road corridors have effectively become “unauthorised mechanic clusters,” causing environmental hazards and traffic bottlenecks, particularly in urban centres within the capital territory.
To restore order and safeguard public infrastructure, the government directed all vehicle owners and roadside operators to clear abandoned vehicles and dismantle makeshift workstations within five days of the announcement.
The notice further prohibited the use of public roads for trading, long-term parking, mechanical repairs, oil changing, or any form of activity that impedes free movement of traffic.
The statement added that a coordinated enforcement operation will begin on Tuesday, 25th November 2025, during which all obstructive and improperly stationed vehicles will be removed.
Violators, the government warned, will face a series of sanctions including;
monetary fines, payment of towing and recovery fees, for possible prosecution under relevant Enugu State laws.
Mechanics, artisans and roadside traders were advised to relocate immediately to government-approved sites for their operations.
The Ministry of Works and Infrastructure and ECTDA further reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring clean, safe, and motorable roads, noting that the crackdown is part of broader efforts to enforce urban discipline and preserve public assets.
Meanwhile, residents have been urged to cooperate with the exercise to support the state’s drive toward a more organised and environmentally friendly capital city.
EDITOR
Sam Udekwe is a journalist working in the News and Current Affairs department, Enugu State Broadcasting Service (ESBS) Enugu. He is well trained in all genres of journalistic venture.
Mr Sam read Mass Communication, graduating all with Distinction in National Diploma, Higher National Diploma and Postgraduate Diploma at IMT, Enugu and Madonna University, Okija, Anambra state, as well as M.Sc Mass Communication with Second Class(Upper Division) at National Open University of Nigeria.
He is the immediate past NUJ Chairman, Enugu state.
samowailo@gmail.com
