As reported by Channels TV, the Kwara State Government has announced a new vehicle restriction policy for Ahmadu Bello Way in Ilorin's GRA district.

The restriction, effective immediately as of November 8, 2024, applies to certain vehicles, including tricycles (Keke Napep), commercial motorcycles (Okada), taxi cabs, trucks, and heavy-duty vehicles, according to a statement from the state Ministry of Works and Transport.

The Kwara State Traffic Management Agency (KWARTMA) has been directed to enforce the policy promptly.

Kwara State Commissioner for Works and Transport, Abdulquawiy Olododo, stated that any vehicle found violating the restriction will incur a penalty of up to ₦50,000.

Ahmadu Bello Way which has been one of the newly rehabilitated roads by the government serves as an alternate road taken by commercial vehicles to Tanke, Fate, and River Basin areas in Ilorin Metropolis.

In giving the public notice, the Ministry said that it has commenced the erection of restriction signages at some designated spots from Challenge through Ahmadu Bello Way.

“Ahmadu Bello Way is the road network that links to the Government House, as such, the signage will be mounted along this axis to restrict access by motorcycles, tricycles, commercial vehicles, and heavy-duty vehicles of certain categories,” the statement said.

While informing the members of the public on the readiness to enforce this Government’s directive, the acting Chief Executive Officer, KWARTMA, Bamidele Michael, affirmed that the move is to complement the existing “No Parking” signs on our roads and also to enhance safety and security.

Olododo further added that “traders should desist from carrying out trading activities on the Walkways which were made for pedestrians particularly in some areas including Ojaoba, Gambari, Ita-Amodu, Agaka, Adifa, Gambari, Balogun Fulani, Emir’s Road, Post Office to Challenge and Muritala Mohammed way among many others, while taking into cognizance the dangers associated with road encroachment.”

The Commissioner also warned that driving against traffic (one-way) is on the rise and hence any driver found culpable of this dangerous act will be sanctioned according to the law.

“Unlike the ‘No Parking’ sign, the restriction ‘NOT ALLOWED’ sign along Ahmadu Bello way bears a stiffer fine of ₦50,000 for violation of the order and other measures shall be employed to ensure compliance,” the statement said.

Olododo, however, advised members of the public to cooperate with the State Government in achieving a safer road meant for the betterment of all.