By Ade Oyeyemi
The Ondo State Government has given owners of abandoned trucks, heavy-duty equipment, machinery and large watercraft across the state seven days to remove them or risk having the items impounded and forfeited.
The directive, which takes immediate effect, was issued by the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on Emergency Response and Safety Enforcement, Prince Wellington Oriade Adebawo.
Adebawo said the deadline would expire on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, warning owners and operators affected by the directive to act before the expiration of the period.
He said the government was concerned about the safety risks posed by heavy-duty vehicles and machinery left on roads and public spaces, as well as abandoned boats, barges and other large vessels obstructing waterways.
According to him, the abandoned items could endanger motorists, pedestrians, commuters and other users of the state’s waterways, particularly when they remain unattended for long periods.
Adebawo disclosed that the government had conducted a survey across the state’s 18 local government areas to identify abandoned heavy vehicles, equipment and other obstructions considered potential safety hazards.
He therefore urged individuals, companies and businesses with abandoned trucks, trailers, construction equipment and other heavy machinery to remove them from roads and public spaces and relocate them to suitable locations.
The government official also directed owners of abandoned boats, barges and other commercial watercraft to retrieve their vessels and move them to designated safe areas within the seven-day deadline.
Adebawo said the exercise was intended to prevent avoidable accidents and safeguard lives and property, stressing that it was not designed to disrupt legitimate businesses.
He noted that abandoned heavy equipment could obstruct traffic, reduce visibility and limit available road space, thereby exposing road users to unnecessary danger.
He warned that owners who failed to comply within the stipulated period would face enforcement action, including the removal and impoundment of the affected vehicles, machinery and watercraft.
Such items, he added, could subsequently be forfeited in line with relevant laws and government regulations.
Adebawo further stressed that there would be no extension of the deadline, urging affected owners to use the seven-day window to comply and avoid sanctions.
READ ALSO
- Oyetola highlights achievements of Marine and Blue Economy Ministry
- Osun Assembly Commends OSCO-HEALTH, Provost Raheem Over Growth
- Ondo gives owners seven days to remove abandoned trucks, boats
- 2027: Atiku, Obi can’t stop Tinubu’s re-election — APC elder
- ASUU shuts down UNIMEDO over unpaid arrears, FG agreement
He called for the cooperation of companies, businesses and individuals affected by the directive, saying compliance would contribute to safer roads and waterways across Ondo State.
The aide reaffirmed the Aiyedatiwa administration’s commitment to strengthening emergency response, safety enforcement and preventive measures aimed at protecting residents and property across the state.
