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I pen these words with a heavy heart and a genuine sense of concern for the fate of our vibrant community on Sani Abacha Street.
While I understand the government’s intention to address street trading in the central business district, I earnestly implore you to consider an alternative approach that reflects compassion and empathy towards the traders and shop owners who call this street their home.
Sani Abacha Street has been a bustling hub of commerce for decades, providing sustenance and hope to countless families who depend on it for their livelihoods. I can not help but worry about the impact a complete ban on street trading would have on these hardworking individuals. Disrupting their businesses would not only lead to financial hardships but also emotional and psychological distress for them and their families.
As I reflect on the situation, I realize that converting Sani Abacha Street into a pure market area, inspired by the success of Istanbul’s markets, can be a transformative solution that benefits all parties involved. This path would not only preserve the livelihoods of the traders but also foster a sense of community and local entrepreneurship, which are vital elements in building a strong and thriving society.
I understand that the government has genuine concerns about traffic congestion, but it is heartening to know that on a normal day, Sani Abacha Street accounts for only about 10% of private vehicles using the route. In fact, only goods delivery vehicles constantly use this route. Redirecting traffic to Godreich Street and the hillside bypass road can be a more logical and viable option for decongestion, without causing undue harm to the traders and shop owners.Godreich Street will offer a more safer route due to it’s size relative to Abacha Street. A few changes like controlling the ‘Poda Poda’ park and a complete pavement of the area connecting Godereich Street to Eastern Police(Kissy Road and Fourah Bay Road) coupled with a strict adherence enforced by the police of traffic compliance at Eastern police will allow free flow of traffic much more better than banning Street trading at Abacha Street.
Moreover, converting Sani Abacha Street into a regulated and organized market can provide a substantial source of revenue for the city council. The local taxes generated from this thriving market can be channelled into funding important public services, infrastructure projects, and community initiatives that benefit all citizens.
I earnestly request the government to approach this matter with empathy and compassion, engaging in open dialogue with the affected communities. Let us collectively explore solutions that address the concerns of both the government and the traders while considering the broader impact on our society.
In conclusion, I believe that embracing a path of empathy and compassion towards the traders and shop owners on Sani Abacha Street will showcase the government’s commitment to the welfare of its citizens. By adopting the vision of a transformed pure market area and redirecting vehicle traffic to Godreich Street and the hillside bypass road, we can pave the way for a brighter future that balances progress with compassion, ensuring that no one is left behind.
With heartfelt concern and hope for a better tomorrow,
Very good initiative and a great concern to all, I hope the government will consider this appeal and in good fate
Let street be free for we the passby, Mamie cuss and molestation form this trader.
A long lasting solution to this street trading issue is to diversify the economy, paying attention to other aspects of commerce and trade… like agribusiness, skills training or vocational enterprise, these can reduce the number of hawkers and petty traders on the streets.