The Abia State Government has commenced a full-scale enforcement operation aimed at relocating mechanics from major streets in Aba to Ovom mechanic cluster in another part of the city.
This followed the expiration of the October 15, 2025 deadline given to the traders by the state government to relocate their businesses to the government-approved area.
A joint enforcement team was led by the State’s Commissioner for Industry & SME, Mr. Mike Akpara and the Commander of Abia State Harmonized Task force for Aba Zone, Mr Uche Wogu.
Sealing of shops of began on Thursday and continued through the weekend as the relocation enforcement team moved from Jubilee Road, School Road, Azikiwe Road, Clifford Road, Tenant Road and other key areas.
Speaking on the action, the Commissioner for Industry &SME, Mr. Mike Akpara said it was designed to sanitize the Aba city, assuring the traders and mechanics of a better business environment.
“This is not witch-hunting. This government is people-oriented. We have given them over one year to move, and their leaders are part of this enforcement.
“Roads are being damaged and gutters blocked because of mechanic activities,” Akpara said.
While some mechanics including Mr Okechukwu Mathew expressed their support for the relocation, majority of other artisans pleaded that they be allowed to do their seasonal trading till December before moving to Ovom in January 2026.
But their appeals were rejected by the state government joint team.
