By Vicent Emong
Authorities in Kumi Municipality have issued a 14-day ultimatum to traders operating on walkways, pavements and other undesignated public spaces to remove their property and relocate to designated business areas.
The directive, which took effect on March 6, 2026, was announced in a public notice issued by Ekaja Emmanuel, the Town Clerk of Kumi Municipality.
According to the notice, individuals conducting business along pedestrian pathways and other restricted areas must vacate within the stipulated period or risk enforcement action by municipal authorities.
Municipal leaders say the move is part of efforts to restore order in the town and ensure that public infrastructure remains accessible and safe for residents.
Speaking about the decision, Town Clerk Ekaja Emmanuel said the municipality had observed increasing congestion along pedestrian walkways due to the growing number of roadside vendors.
“We have given a grace period of 14 days beginning 6th March 2026 to all people operating businesses on walkways, pavements and other undesignated public spaces to remove their property,” Emmanuel said.
“These spaces are meant for pedestrians and public movement, and their continued occupation by traders has created serious challenges for the municipality,” he added.
Residents Raise Concerns Over Congestion
Municipal authorities say the directive follows numerous complaints from residents who have struggled to use walkways due to encroachment by traders.
“Pedestrians have been forced to walk on the roads because pavements are occupied by traders,” Emmanuel noted. “This situation disrupts movement and also exposes members of the public to safety risks.”
Traders Fear Losing Customers
However, the announcement has triggered concern among some vendors who fear they could lose customers if they relocate from busy streets.
Several traders operating along pathways in Kumi Municipality say the roadside locations attract the foot traffic necessary to sustain their small businesses.
Some vendors have appealed to the municipality to reconsider the directive or extend the relocation period to allow them time to adjust.
Municipality Offers Alternative Locations
Despite the concerns, municipal authorities insist that alternative arrangements have already been made to accommodate the affected traders.
“Before issuing this directive, the municipality made provisions for traders who are currently operating along the pathways,” Emmanuel explained.
“We have advised them to relocate to the park area, and there is also designated land where they can continue operating their businesses in a more organized manner,” he added.
According to the town clerk, the relocation plan is aimed at enabling traders to operate in a structured and legally recognized environment where services such as sanitation and security can be provided more effectively.
“Our intention is not to chase anyone away from earning a livelihood,” Emmanuel said. “What we want is to organize the town so that businesses operate in appropriate places.”
Municipal officials also argue that the reorganization will help improve sanitation and waste management in the town center, where unregulated roadside trading has sometimes led to littering and drainage blockages.
“We want Kumi Municipality to remain clean, accessible and safe for everyone,” Emmanuel emphasized.
Local leaders say they will continue engaging traders and community members during the 14-day notice period to ensure a smooth transition.
Authorities have warned that once the deadline expires, enforcement teams may remove property found in restricted areas.
“We encourage all affected traders to comply within the given time,” Emmanuel said. “This will help avoid unnecessary conflicts and allow the municipality to move forward with its plans to improve urban order.”
As the deadline approaches, discussions between traders, community leaders and municipal officials are expected to continue, with many hoping that a compromise can be reached that balances urban planning needs with the livelihoods of small-scale traders.
