Oyo State Deputy Governor, Chief Alake Adeyemo, on Tuesday, led a delegation of top officials of the state on a condolence visit to the scene of an accident, which reportedly claimed three lives at the New Garage area of Ibadan, on Saturday.
Describing the incident as unfortunate, the deputy governor used the opportunity to again warn traders to desist from trading on the streets, which he blamed for the number of deaths and injuries that occurred during the accident.
Adeyemo said, “It is with pain in our hearts that we have come here today to commiserate with you. We know nothing happens in life without God knowing about it but it is better we avoid this type of thing by staying out of harm’s way.
“The state government had for long been giving frantic warnings against street trading; not because of any other thing, but to protect lives and property of residents. I wish we learn a great lesson from this sad occurrence.
“We keep chasing traders away from the road sides, but they have remained adamant. The laws and regulations forbidding street trading are not meant to hurt people but to protect lives and properties. May the Almighty grant the families of the deceased the fortitude to bear this sad loss.”
The deputy governor further warned residents to desist from trading by the road side or building houses under high tension power lines, which he blamed for similar past accidents.
The accident was said to have occurred when the driver of a trailer lost control and rammed traders and vehicles parked by the road side reportedly due to brake failure.
In her response, the Deputy Leader of the New Garage Traders’ Association, Chief Fadeke Awe, appreciated the delegation for the visit and appealed to traders in the state to comply with all safety regulations of government
She stated that the market associations in the state support the government’s efforts and regulations against road side selling or hawking.
