Abia State Government has given street traders in the state, especially on the newly-reconstructed roads in Aba and Umuahia, up to July 1st to vacate the streets or brace up for heavy sanctions.

The ultimatum is contained in a statement issued Thursday by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works, Izuchukwu Onwughara, on behalf of the Commissioner, Otumchere Oti.

The government also frowned at the activities of mechanics who have converted part of the roads to their workshops and vowed to descend heavily on anyone whose activities pose danger to the lifespan of the roads.

The statement made available to Vanguard in Umuahia read: “Government is by this announcement reminding the general public that transacting business on the newly constructed and reconstruction roads in the state, and other unwholesome activities like dumping of refuse into the drainage, channelling of borehole and sewage water to the asphalted roads, and mechanics repairing vehicles along the roads are prohibited. Such activities will no longer be tolerated as they are detrimental to the life span of the roads.

“Consequently, government is warning the defaulters to stop forthwith and those who display their wares on the asphalted pavement, particularly at Owerri Road in Umuahia, kenth Road, Jubilee Road, Ngwa Road, Port Harcourt Road, Obioha Road, and Enugu Port Harcourt Expressway by Ariaria Market Junction all in Aba, to vacate the roads within seven days of this announcement or be prepared to dance the rhythm of the long arms of law.”