The Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has ordered an immediate clampdown on all illegal garages operating in the state.
In a statement released, Abiodun stated that the operations of these garages are not only illegal but also exploit commuters, drivers, and other citizens through exorbitant charges and unexplained levies, especially at a time when the state government is striving to reduce transportation fares.
The governor’s order followed an intervention by the State Taskforce on Environmental Compliance and Enforcement, led by Chairman Alhaji Farook Akintunde, which shut down two illegal garages at the NNPC Junction and opposite the June 12 Cultural Centre in Abeokuta for constituting environmental nuisances and operating illegally on roadsides.
The statement partly read, “While commending the Taskforce, Abiodun ordered the extension of the exercise statewide and a total clampdown on illegal garages, particularly in the Mowe-Ibafo axis and Sango-Ota.
Aside from exploiting commuters, these garages pose security risks to residents as they serve as hideouts for criminals, often operating from shanties and makeshift structures.”
“As a responsible government, we will not stand by and watch the operators of these garages expose our people to unnecessary danger.
“This is a crucial period when our citizens deserve all possible support to alleviate the current economic realities in the country.”
Abiodun also urged residents to refrain from patronising illegal garages and instead use government-recognised facilities, as well as board government CNG buses for more affordable and comfortable transportation.
