By Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab
The Kogi State Ministry of Environment and Ecological Management, in collaboration with the Kogi State Town Planning Authority, has on Wednesday, demolished over 50 illegal makeshift shops at Obasanjo Square in Lokoja, the state capital.
The joint operation was led by the Commissioner for Environment and Ecological Management, Hon. Engr. Joseph Oluwasegun Stephen, as part of efforts to enforce environmental and town planning regulations and restore public spaces.
The exercise affected traders operating from makeshift structures at the square, with the authorities citing the need to maintain environmental order and ensure compliance with approved planning regulations.
However, the affected traders have appealed to the Kogi State Government to provide an alternative location where they can continue their businesses.
Some of the traders said the demolished shops were their major sources of livelihood and urged the government to relocate them to an approved market or designated trading area.
They also appealed for greater engagement with affected traders, saying relocation would allow them to comply with government regulations while preserving their means of livelihood.
The Commissioner reiterated the government’s commitment to maintaining a clean, safe and properly planned environment across Lokoja and the state.
The joint enforcement exercise is expected to form part of broader efforts by the relevant state agencies to address illegal structures and unauthorized commercial activities in public spaces.
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