Security Adviser Commends Task Force For Job well-done
By:Usman Ibrahim Geidam
The Special Adviser on Security Matters to the Governor of Yobe State, Brigadier General Dahiru Abdulsalam (Rtd), has commended members of the Joint Task Force on the Relocation of Street Traders for their effective sensitisation and enforcement efforts, noting growing compliance by street traders across Damaturu metropolis with the state government’s relocation directive.
Speaking shortly after the first day of enforcement tour of major streets in the state capital, particularly Bayan Tasha and other areas previously known for heavy roadside trading, Dr. Abdulsalam expressed satisfaction with the positive response of traders to the directive to relocate to the Ibrahim Geidam Modern Market.
He explained that the exercise forms part of the Yobe State Government’s sustained efforts to restore order, strengthen security, and improve the urban outlook of Damaturu.
According to him, early compliance by traders demonstrates increased awareness of the security, environmental, and traffic risks associated with roadside trading.
“The level of compliance we are beginning to witness is encouraging and commendable. The government has provided a modern market with adequate facilities, constructed by the administration of Governor Mai Mala Buni, to ensure a safe, organised and conducive environment for commercial activities,” Dr. Abdulsalam said.
He reiterated that the continued presence of traders on roadsides and street corners poses serious security, environmental and traffic challenges, stressing that there is no justification for obstructing roads and exposing lives and property to avoidable risks.
The task force moved round the metropolis accompanied by a Mobile and Revenue Court, led by four magistrates, with the legal team headed by Barrister Rakiya Tofa Muktar Officials explained that the presence of the court was to ensure immediate legal action against defaulters after the expiration of the one-day ultimatum.
The Joint Task Force Committee comprises representatives of key security and regulatory agencies, including the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Nigerian Correctional Service.
Other participating agencies include the Yobe State Road Traffic Maintenance Agency (YOROTA), the Hunters Group, and the Yobe State Environmental Protection Agency (YOSEPA).
Officials further disclosed that the joint operation would last for three to four months, during which compliance would be closely monitored and enforcement sustained to prevent a return to street trading after relocation.
The state government has consistently warned for over a year that once the deadline lapses, enforcement would commence without further notice, and violators would be prosecuted in line with existing laws.
The relocation of street traders to the Ibrahim Geidam Modern Market is part of broader reforms by the Yobe State Government aimed at promoting urban renewal, public safety, and economic orderliness in the state capital.
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