Residents and traders operating along major roads and busy junctions in Port Harcourt City Local Government Area are expressing concern over where to relocate after receiving a seven-day ultimatum to vacate their current trading spots.
Some of the traders, who spoke with our correspondent, Ofonime Okon, said they are unhappy conducting business by the roadsides and junctions but have been left with no viable alternatives. They urged the Rivers State Government to reopen the Rumuwoji Mile One Market to provide them with a proper and safe trading environment.
For many, the reopening of the market remains the only realistic solution to avoid a loss of livelihood.
The chairman of Port Harcourt City Local Government, Allwell Ihunda, had earlier issued a directive ordering all traders operating in unapproved locations to vacate within seven days. According to the notice, enforcement of the directive is scheduled to begin on Monday, December 1, 2025.
The impending enforcement has heightened anxiety among traders, who say they fear displacement unless the government provides an accessible alternative trading space.
