Asaba, Delta State, February 10, 2026 – The Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency (DSCTDA) has launched a sweeping enforcement operation to clear illegal roadside structures, makeshift stalls, and unauthorized street trading activities throughout the capital city of Asaba. The exercise, which began last week, marks a bold step in the agency's ongoing urban renewal and environmental sanitation campaign aimed at reclaiming public spaces, enhancing road safety, reducing traffic congestion, and restoring the aesthetic appeal of Asaba as a modern, well-planned state capital.
The operation is being executed by the DSCTDA Task Force under the direct supervision and directive of the agency's Director-General, Mr. Patrick Ukah. Teams have focused on key high-traffic corridors and commercial hotspots where illegal encroachments have long obstructed walkways, drainage channels, and road setbacks. Affected locations include:
- Akpu Junction
- Marble Hill Junction
- Arcade/Ogbeogonogo Market area
- Maryam Babangida Way
- Okpanam Road (NTA axis)
- Okpanam Road by the State House of Assembly
- Inter-Bau Roundabout
- Ibusa Road/Slot
- Nnebisi Road
In these zones, traders had erected temporary structures, kiosks, and display tables that spilled onto pedestrian paths, blocked drainage systems, and narrowed carriageways, creating hazards for motorists and pedestrians alike.
Speaking on the rationale behind the exercise, Mr. Patrick Ukah described the operation as “long overdue.” He pointed out that the uncontrolled proliferation of roadside trading had escalated into a serious public safety issue, contributing to frequent accidents, gridlock during peak hours, and environmental degradation through indiscriminate waste disposal and blocked waterways.
“The unchecked spread of illegal structures and street hawking has posed real dangers to road users and undermined the orderly image of our capital,” Mr. Ukah stated. “This enforcement is not directed at any individual or group but at restoring sanity, enforcing compliance with existing laws, and protecting the lives and property of all residents.”
The Director-General emphasized that the agency remains committed to a zero-tolerance stance on activities that deface the city or endanger public safety. He advised affected traders and operators to relocate promptly to designated government-approved markets and trading zones within Asaba, such as the modernized Ogbeogonogo Main Market, Waziri Market, and other approved commercial spaces equipped with necessary facilities.
Mr. Ukah warned that the current exercise is only the initial phase. “This operation will be sustained and, if necessary, extended to other parts of the capital territory until full compliance is achieved,” he said. He assured that the DSCTDA would continue dialogue with market associations and community leaders to facilitate smooth transitions for genuine traders.
Complementing the demolition and removal of illegal structures, DSCTDA has simultaneously intensified routine sweeping, desilting of drains, and general sanitation across major arteries. Special attention has been given to the Mammy Market/Traffic Light axis and other busy commercial corridors to prevent the resurgence of filth and illegal vending.
The sanitation component of the exercise is being overseen by Mr. Isaac Nwosu, Head of Environment at DSCTDA. He reported that dedicated monitoring teams have been deployed to patrol cleared areas, ensure sustained compliance, and deter any immediate attempts to reoccupy public spaces.
“We are not just removing structures today; we are putting systems in place to maintain the gains,” Mr. Nwosu explained. “Our teams will continue daily patrols and enforcement to preserve cleanliness and order.”
He appealed to residents, traders, shop owners, and commuters to support the agency’s efforts by adhering to environmental regulations, disposing of waste properly, and refraining from patronizing or operating illegal roadside stalls. “A clean and orderly Asaba is a shared responsibility,” he added. “Cooperation from the public will go a long way in sustaining these improvements.”
The ongoing operation reflects the broader vision of the Delta State Government under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to transform Asaba into a model capital city that supports economic growth, tourism, investment, and quality of life. A well-maintained urban environment is seen as essential to attracting businesses, improving public health, and enhancing the state's overall image.
Mr. Patrick Ukah reaffirmed DSCTDA’s unwavering commitment to this goal. “We are determined to build a clean, safe, secure, and orderly capital territory,” he said. “A well-organized Asaba is not just about aesthetics—it is critical to the image, growth, and sustainable development of Delta State as a whole.”
Residents and road users have largely welcomed the exercise, with many expressing hope that the removal of obstructions will ease daily commuting, reduce accident risks, and improve the general outlook of the city. Market leaders, while acknowledging the challenges faced by displaced traders, have indicated willingness to work with the government to identify alternative trading locations.
As the DSCTDA Task Force continues its patrols and enforcement activities, the agency has called on all stakeholders to embrace the renewed focus on orderliness and environmental responsibility. The operation is expected to serve as a foundation for long-term urban planning and maintenance initiatives across the capital territory.
With sustained effort and public cooperation, Asaba is poised to emerge cleaner, safer, and more attractive—a capital city befitting Delta State's status as a key economic and administrative hub in the Niger Delta region.
