IMO GOVERNMENT CRACKS DOWN ON ILLEGAL TRADING AND LOADING AT CONTROL FLYOVER: 11 OFFENDERS REMANDED AS COURT ADJOURNS CASE TO OCTOBER 29, 2025.

By Prince Uwalaka Chimaroke

10- OCT -2025

The Imo State Government has taken decisive action against individuals unlawfully converting the newly inaugurated Control–Assumpta Twin Flyover in Owerri into makeshift trading zones and illegal loading points.

A total of 11 offenders, including roadside vendors, commercial drivers, and touts, were apprehended during a coordinated enforcement exercise spearheaded by the Office of the Governor on Monitoring and Compliance, under the supervision of Nze Chinasa Nwaneri. The operation was part of an ongoing state-wide effort to restore order and eliminate lawlessness around key public infrastructure within the capital city.

Official reports revealed that the culprits were caught engaging in unauthorized trading, loading, and extortionist practices under the flyover, in blatant defiance of repeated government warnings and previous clean-up exercises in the area.

They were immediately arraigned before a magistrate court on charges relating to obstruction of public use, violation of state directives, and unauthorized commercial activity. The presiding magistrate ordered that the 11 defendants be remanded in the correctional facility until the next court sitting scheduled for October 29, 2025.

Speaking after the court proceedings, Nze Chinasa Nwaneri reaffirmed the Uzodimma-led administration’s unwavering stance on environmental discipline and urban order.

> “The Governor has made it abundantly clear that public structures like the Control–Assumpta Flyover must not be turned into centers of disorder or criminal activity. Anyone caught violating these directives will be prosecuted without compromise,” Nwaneri declared.

Residents and motorists in the Control–Assumpta axis expressed support for the government’s action, describing it as a welcome move to protect the state’s investments and sustain urban sanity. Many also commended the administration for its continuous efforts in enforcing law, order, and safety across Owerri metropolis.

The Imo State Government restated its commitment to safeguarding public infrastructure and ensuring that all citizens adhere strictly to laid-down regulations, warning that future violators will face immediate legal consequences.