The Executive Mayor of Onitsha South Local Government Area, Hon. Chief Ikechukwu Mofunanya (Ezeoba), has warned clothes hawkers operating at Ochanja Market against obstructing roads and blocking access to shops, insisting on the need for orderliness and compliance with designated trading spaces.
The mayor issued the warning during an inspection visit to the market on October 29, 2026. He was represented by the Local Government Legal Adviser, Barrister Stanley Okafor, and the Chief of Staff, Barrister Kenechukwu Aguejiofor.
Mofunanya expressed concern that indiscriminate hawking and roadside trading obstruct the movement of vehicles and pedestrians, worsen traffic congestion and disrupt commercial activities within the market.
He noted that the practice also affects shop owners who pay for designated business premises, as hawkers occupying access routes and spaces in front of shops make it difficult for customers to patronise their businesses.
The mayor consequently urged traders to conduct their businesses responsibly, respect other people’s commercial spaces and refrain from activities that compromise the safety and convenience of market users.
He stressed that maintaining an organised market environment requires the cooperation of traders and other stakeholders, noting that everyone has a responsibility to ensure that Ochanja Market remains accessible and conducive to commercial activities.
The Mofunanya-led administration reaffirmed its commitment to restoring order in public spaces across Onitsha South, protecting legitimate business interests and creating a safer, cleaner and more organised environment for traders, customers and visitors.
