The Ondo State Government has issued a seven-day ultimatum to owners of abandoned heavy-duty vehicles, trucks, machinery, and large watercraft across the state to remove them or risk forfeiture. The directive, which takes effect from Wednesday, September 30, to Wednesday, October 7, 2026, was issued by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Emergency Response and Safety Enforcement, Prince Wellington Oriade Adebawo.
According to Adebawo, the abandoned vehicles, equipment, and watercraft pose safety risks to motorists, pedestrians, commuters, and waterways users. The government had conducted a survey across the 18 local government areas to identify abandoned heavy-duty vehicles, machinery, and other obstructions requiring urgent intervention.
Owners of abandoned trucks, trailers, construction equipment, and other heavy machinery along roads and public spaces are urged to remove them to safe locations within the stipulated period. Similarly, owners of abandoned boats, barges, and other commercial watercraft are directed to retrieve and relocate them to designated safe locations.
The exercise aims to prevent avoidable accidents and protect lives and property. Abandoned equipment can obstruct roads, reduce visibility, and expose road users to danger. Adebawo stressed that the directive is part of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration’s efforts to strengthen safety enforcement and emergency response and ensure safer roads and waterways across the state.
Adebawo warned that owners who fail to comply by October 7 will face enforcement action, including removal and impoundment of the affected vehicles, equipment, and watercraft, which could be liable to forfeiture in accordance with relevant laws. He emphasized that there will be no extension or grace period, urging affected owners to take advantage of the seven-day window to comply.
The government’s move is aimed at maintaining safety and order on the roads and waterways. The Senior Special Assistant emphasized the importance of cooperation from the public, especially vehicle and boat owners, to ensure the success of the exercise.
The Ondo State Government’s directive is a proactive measure to mitigate potential hazards and ensure a safer environment for everyone. Vehicle and boat owners are expected to adhere to the directive and remove their abandoned assets within the specified timeframe to avoid any consequences.
Key points
- The Ondo State Government has given a seven-day ultimatum to owners of abandoned vehicles and watercraft to remove them or risk forfeiture.
- The abandoned vehicles and equipment pose safety risks to motorists, pedestrians, and waterways users.
- Failure to comply with the directive will result in enforcement action, including removal and possible forfeiture of the affected assets.
