The Kwara State Government imposed new vehicle restrictions on Ahmadu Bello Way in Ilorin, effective immediately.
The Ministry of Works and Transport issued a directive on Friday, November 8, 2024, banning certain types of vehicles from using the road, and instructed the Kwara State Traffic Management Agency (KWARTMA) to begin enforcement.
The banned vehicles include tricycles, known locally as Keke Napep, commercial motorcycles (Okadas), taxi cabs, trucks, and heavy-duty vehicles.
The Commissioner for Works and Transport, Abdulquawiy Olododo, stated that violators would face fines of up to ₦50,000.
Ahmadu Bello Way, recently rehabilitated by the state government, has long served as an alternate route for commercial vehicles traveling to the Tanke, Fate, and River Basin areas of Ilorin.
To ensure compliance, the Ministry has begun placing restriction signage along key spots, including from Challenge through Ahmadu Bello Way.
“The road network connects to the Government House, and as such, signage will be placed along this route to prevent access by motorcycles, tricycles, commercial vehicles, and heavy-duty vehicles of certain categories,” the Ministry’s statement explained.
KWARTMA’s Acting CEO, Bamidele Michael, assured the public that the new restrictions are aimed at improving road safety and complementing existing “No Parking” regulations.
He emphasized that the move is also part of ongoing efforts to enhance security.
In addition to vehicle restrictions, Olododo called on traders to refrain from selling on pedestrian walkways in areas such as Ojaoba, Gambari, Ita-Amodu, Agaka, and others, warning that road encroachment poses significant safety risks.
The Commissioner also noted an increase in drivers violating one-way traffic rules and reiterated that those caught driving against traffic would be penalized in accordance with the law.
The new “NOT ALLOWED” signage on Ahmadu Bello Way will carry a stricter fine of ₦50,000 for violations.
Olododo urged the public to cooperate with the government’s efforts, emphasizing that the measures are designed to create safer roads for everyone.
