The Olota of Ota, His Royal Majesty Oba Adeyemi Abdulkabir Obalanlege, alongside the Executive Chairman of Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government, Hon. Wasiu Adewale Lawal, FCA, has personally led a multi-agency task force in a major road-clearing exercise aimed at dislodging illegal traders and structures blocking major roads and highways in Ota, Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area.
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The operation, which began early Wednesday morning, February 11, 2026, involved personnel from the Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corps (TRACE), Ogun State Police Command, Ota Area Command, Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency (OGEPA), Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government officials, and officials from the State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development.
Key Highlights of the Exercise
Targeted areas: Sango-Ota, Ijaye, Itele, Joju, and sections of the Lagos–Abeokuta Expressway within Ota metropolis.
Removed items: Makeshift shops, kiosks, containers, wheelbarrows, and other illegal structures obstructing walkways, drainages, and road shoulders.
Purpose: To restore free flow of traffic, improve pedestrian safety, reduce accidents, and enhance the aesthetic and security outlook of the commercial hub.
Monarch’s Role: Oba Adeyemi Abdulkabir led the team on foot, engaging directly with traders, explaining the need for compliance, and assuring them of alternative arrangements where possible.
Speaking during the exercise, the Olota of Ota said: “Our roads are not markets. They are lifelines for movement, commerce, and emergency services. When traders block them, they endanger lives, cause gridlock, and give Ota a bad image. This is not victimisation; it is governance. We will provide support and guidance for those willing to relocate to designated markets, but illegal occupation must stop.”
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The task force gave traders a 72-hour grace period to voluntarily remove their structures before full enforcement resumes. Several traders who complied were assisted in moving goods to nearby markets such as Sango, Atan and Iju markets.
The delegation also inspected the ongoing bridge construction at Oju Ore, Otta, along the Otta–Idiroko Expressway, engaged engineers on site, urging them to ensure quality delivery that will stand the test of time. The construction company was further encouraged to urgently address areas requiring adjustment, particularly to ease the challenges faced by adjoining communities and road users.
Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Chairman: Commended the monarch’s leadership and promised continued collaboration with traditional rulers to maintain order.
Affected Traders: Mixed responses some expressed understanding and promised compliance, while others complained of sudden eviction without immediate alternative space.
Ogun State Government: Described the exercise as part of Governor Dapo Abiodun’s broader urban renewal and traffic decongestion agenda across the state.
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Also part of the exercise; the former Ogun State Head of Service, TPL Amope Ajibola Chokor; Oba Akeem Odunaro; Onikotun of Otun Otta, High Chief Olarenwaju Bashorun, the Seriki of Otta; Engr. Osanyibi Jimoh; Hon. Adebowale Anjorin, Supervisory Councillor on Works; representatives of law enforcement agencies; leadership of the Otta Youth Assembly, leadership of Sango Ota Youth Assembly; as well as officials from the Local Government Works Department and Environmental Sanitation Unit.
The exercise is expected to continue in phases across other flashpoints in Ota and surrounding communities in the coming weeks.
By Ogungbayi Beedee Adeyemi
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