The Cross River State Government has taken action to clear all trucks, including fuel tankers and trailers, from the Murtala Mohammed Highway in the Calabar metropolis, particularly around the Harbour junction.
The government is cautioning drivers against indiscriminate parking, emphasizing the significant risks it poses to other road users. The continuous parking of articulated vehicles along the highway has been identified as a major cause of accidents resulting in loss of lives and damage to properties.
Hon. Peter Okim, Chairman of the Cross River State Joint Task Force on Petroleum Monitoring, reiterated Governor Bassey Otu’s commitment to restoring the state to its former glory. He expressed optimism in achieving a cleaner, greener, safer, and more prosperous Cross River under the governor’s leadership. The Joint Task Force on petroleum was established to not only prevent the diversion or hoarding of petroleum products but also to clear the highway of articulated vehicles and address the causes of traffic congestion and accidents. Hon. Okim expressed satisfaction with the progress made thus far.
He stated, “Following the governor’s directive, we have successfully relocated all initially parked trucks to designated areas. His Excellency recognized the dangers posed by the continuous parking of articulated vehicles along the highway and mandated the JTF team to swiftly clear the road. We are pleased to report that we have fulfilled the mandate, although we encountered some resistance from drivers in ensuring compliance with the directive.”
Hon. Okim emphasized that strict compliance with the directive will be consistently enforced moving forward, and offenders will face severe punishment. The government remains committed to maintaining the cleared highway for the safety and convenience of all road users.
