The Cross River State Government has banned roadside mechanics and street traders in Calabar starting from 31 October.
The Commissioner for Environment, Bassey Mensah, announced this during an inspection of business areas and erosion sites in Calabar on Monday.
Mr Mensah explained that these roadside workers were blocking both pedestrians and vehicles in the city.
He also mentioned that their activities have led to serious environmental damage in Calabar City.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that during the inspection, Mr Mensah visited areas like Kings Street, White House, Bedwell, Punch, Victor Akan, and nearby streets.
He instructed roadside mechanics and traders to move their work to designated areas.
“There is the possibility of exposure to harmful chemicals; we need to collectively protect public health and restore environmental order,” he said.
Mr Mensah emphasized that better sanitation is key to making the environment safer for everyone.
The commissioner showed the government's commitment to tackling the environmental issues caused by roadside workshops and street trading.
He noted that the state government will work with the Nigeria Climate Adaptation, Erosion and Watershed Project to deal with these problems.
He said the inspection is part of the ministry’s ongoing efforts to create a clean, healthy environment in the state through better sanitation, enforcing environmental rules, and raising public awareness.
Ndem Effiong, the senior special assistant to Governor Bassey Otu on the Automobile Technician Regulatory Department, mentioned that vehicle sales and mechanic work should be separated.
He raised concerns about the rising environmental damage caused by mechanics working on the streets.
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