Imo Gov’t Prosecutes 11 Over Illegal Use of Control Flyover for Loading, Trading
….Defaulters remanded at correctional centre as case adjourned to October 29, 2025
The Imo State Government has arraigned 11 individuals for illegally converting sections of the newly commissioned Control-Assumpta Twin Fly-Over in Owerri into trading points, loading bays, and touting zones.
The offenders, comprising roadside traders, commercial vehicle operators, and touts, were arrested during a joint enforcement operation led by the Office of the Governor on Monitoring and Compliance, under the supervision of Nze Chinasa Nwaneri. The exercise is part of the ongoing government campaign to restore order and curb criminal activities around strategic public infrastructures in the state capital.
According to official reports, the culprits were caught conducting illegal loading, hawking, and extortionist activities beneath the fly-over, despite repeated warnings and recent demolitions of criminal hideouts in the same area.
They were promptly charged to court on multiple counts bordering on obstruction of public space, illegal trading, and violation of government directives. After their arraignment, the presiding magistrate ordered that the 11 defendants be remanded at the correctional centre pending the determination of their case, which has been adjourned to October 29, 2025, for hearing.
Speaking to newsmen after the court session, Nze Chinasa Nwaneri reiterated the state government’s zero-tolerance stance against environmental indiscipline and criminal misuse of public infrastructure.
“Governor Hope Uzodimma has made it clear that the Control-Assumpta Fly-Over and its environs must not become a den for lawlessness. Those who choose to disregard government directives will face the full weight of the law. We will continue to monitor all major public installations to ensure sanity and safety for all residents,” he stated.
Residents and commuters around the Control area commended the action, describing it as a necessary step to preserve the integrity of the fly-over and maintain public order. Many also praised the government for sustaining the security and urban enforcement initiatives that have continued to make Owerri safer and more organized.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining discipline, orderliness, and security across the state, warning that further breaches will attract swift and decisive consequences.