Kogi Govt, FRSC To End Traffic Gridlock At Lokoja International Market

Kogi State government, in collaboration with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), has warned traders, motorists and transport operators against actions contributing to traffic congestion around the International Market in Lokoja.

The warning was issued on Wednesday during a joint road safety sensitisation led by the senior special assistant to the Governor on Road Safety, Dr Suberu Yusuf-John, alongside the Kogi FRSC sector commander, Mr Lawan Lalu-Fagge, and members of the Market Task Force.

Yusuf-John said the exercise became necessary following the increasing encroachment on roadways by traders and drivers, a situation he noted has continued to obstruct the free flow of traffic within and around the busy market environment.

According to him, the sensitisation campaign is aimed at improving road safety, reducing congestion, and ensuring smooth vehicular movement around the International Market, which has become a major traffic bottleneck in Lokoja.

He directed motorists and traders to use designated parking spaces and approved areas for commercial activities.

The SSA also warned truck drivers against offloading goods by the roadside, stressing that violators risk facing legal sanctions.

He further advised shop owners displaying goods on road shoulders and pedestrian walkways to remove them immediately in the interest of public safety and traffic or”orderliness.

“This sensitisation exercise is aimed at educating defaulters on the dangers and traffic implications of roadside offloading, especially on market days,” he said. Yusuf-John also cautioned commercial drivers and tricycle operators against indiscriminate parking and the picking or dropping of passengers outside approved loading points and designated parks.

He disclosed that the team engaged traders, transport operators, and other stakeholders on the importance of traffic discipline, compliance with road safety regulations, and maintaining order within the market vicinity.

The SSA revealed that, following the resolutions reached at the stakeholders’ meeting held on 15 April at the Government House in Lokoja, plans were underway to establish a task force to oversee traffic management in the state, especially in major commercial areas.

He explained that the current sensitisation exercise serves as a follow-up to those resolutions and also as awareness ahead of the commencement of full traffic management operations in the area.

As part of the exercise, the team inspected designated parking facilities around the market and observed the need to install poles and caution tape to properly demarcate parking areas before the commencement of full market-day operations.

The joint exercise, according to officials, reflects the commitment of the Kogi State Government, the FRSC, and market stakeholders toward promoting safer road use, protecting lives, and ensuring free flow of traffic around the International Market in Lokoja.