The Ondo State Government has issued a directive for the removal of abandoned heavy-duty vehicles, trucks, machinery, and large watercraft obstructing roads and waterways across the state. The order was announced by Mr. Wellington Adebawo, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Emergency Response and Safety Enforcement, in Akure, the state capital. The directive aims to address growing safety concerns over the presence of these abandoned objects.
According to Adebawo, the abandoned objects constitute potential hazards to motorists, commuters, pedestrians, and waterway users, particularly where they are left unattended for extended periods. 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. This survey is part of efforts to identify and address potential safety hazards across the state.
The directive applies to companies, businesses, and individuals whose heavy-duty vehicles, trucks, trailers, construction equipment, and other large machinery have been abandoned along roads or other public spaces. Owners of abandoned large boats, barges, and other commercial watercraft on the state's waterways are also advised to retrieve and relocate their vessels to designated and safe locations within the seven-day period.
The governor's aide emphasized that the directive is primarily aimed at preventing avoidable accidents and protecting lives and property, rather than targeting legitimate businesses or individuals. Abandoned heavy vehicles and equipment can create dangerous obstructions, reduce visibility and available road space, and expose road users to avoidable risks.
Failure to comply with the directive within the specified period will result in the Ondo State Government taking necessary enforcement action to remove and impound the abandoned vehicles, equipment, and watercraft. Such items will be liable to forfeiture in accordance with applicable government regulations and laws. The order takes effect from Wednesday, September 30, 2026, and expires on Wednesday, October 7, 2026.
Adebawo warned that there will be no extension or grace period beyond the seven-day deadline, and urged all affected owners and operators to use the stipulated period to comply with the directive and avoid enforcement measures. He called on relevant owners and operators to treat the directive with urgency and cooperate with the government to ensure safer roads and waterways across Ondo State.
The directive is part of the state government's efforts to remove obstructions and prevent avoidable accidents. The Aiyedatiwa administration reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening emergency response, safety enforcement, and preventive measures aimed at protecting lives and property across the state. Abandoned heavy-duty vehicles and machinery on public roads can obstruct traffic and create safety hazards for motorists and pedestrians, while derelict boats and other watercraft can pose risks to users of the state's waterways.
Key points
- The Ondo State Government has given owners of abandoned heavy-duty vehicles and equipment seven days to remove them from roads and waterways.
- Failure to comply will result in enforcement action and possible forfeiture of the abandoned vehicles and equipment.
- The directive aims to prevent avoidable accidents and protect lives and property across the state.
