The Kwara State Government has implemented a new traffic restriction on Ahmadu Bello Way in GRA, Ilorin, the state capital. The directive, issued by the state Ministry of Works and Transport on Friday, prohibits specific categories of vehicles, including tricycles (Keke Napep), commercial motorcycles (Okada), taxi cabs, trucks, and heavy-duty vehicles, from accessing the road.
The Kwara State Traffic Management Agency (KWARTMA) has been instructed to begin enforcement immediately.
According to Abdulquawiy Olododo, the Commissioner for Works and Transport, violators of this restriction will face fines of up to N50,000. The decision comes as part of the state government’s efforts to maintain road quality and ensure safety, particularly on Ahmadu Bello Way, a newly rehabilitated road serving as a key route to Tanke, Fate, and the River Basin areas of Ilorin.
Olododo highlighted that the road connects to the Government House, making it a crucial and sensitive route. To facilitate compliance, restriction signages are being installed along this axis from the Challenge area through Ahmadu Bello Way. This move aims to reduce congestion and improve security by limiting access to specific vehicle types.
In addition to the traffic restrictions, the state government has emphasized the importance of keeping walkways clear for pedestrians. Olododo urged traders to avoid encroaching on pedestrian pathways in busy areas such as Ojaoba, Gambari, Ita-Amodu, Agaka, Adifa, Balogun Fulani, Emir’s Road, and Muritala Mohammed Way.
He warned that increased enforcement measures would be taken against those who violate these directives, including traders and drivers who engage in dangerous activities like driving against traffic (one-way). Engr. Bamidele Michael, the acting CEO of KWARTMA, supported the enforcement initiative, noting that it complements existing “No Parking” signs on major roads and is aimed at enhancing overall road safety.
He reiterated that the fine for violating the new “NOT ALLOWED” signage on Ahmadu Bello Way is N50,000, which is higher than the penalty for “No Parking” infractions. The state government has called on the public to cooperate with the new traffic measures to ensure safer roads for everyone.
