In a decisive move to address the frequent traffic gridlock in Benin City, especially around King Square, Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has established the Edo State Public Response Safety Team (PRST). The team’s mandate is to eliminate traffic obstructions caused by illegal parking, street trading, and the indiscriminate picking up and dropping off of passengers.
During a citywide sensitization exercise, PRST Coordinator, Kelly Okungbowa, highlighted the importance of educating the public about the team’s role in restoring law and order. He revealed that a mobile court will soon be set up to prosecute offenders, with guilty parties expected to perform community service instead of facing imprisonment.
> “We are here to clear Ring Road and the streets around King Square of illegal street trading and wrong parking that cause traffic gridlock,” Okungbowa said. “Market women, bus and taxi drivers, and street traders are warned to desist from activities that obstruct traffic flow.”
For now, the PRST is focusing on raising awareness rather than making arrests. Okungbowa emphasized that the state government is committed to ensuring that lawlessness is no longer tolerated in Benin City.
> “The Edo State government will not condone illegality. This is a clear message that it’s no longer business as usual. We’ve been given the mandate to clear the city centre and restore order,” he added.
Okungbowa also announced that security agencies are collaborating with the PRST to ensure compliance. The team will operate two shifts daily: a morning shift from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and an afternoon shift from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Market women have been instructed to return to designated market areas, while drivers have been directed to vacate King Square.
> “A mobile court will soon be operational to try offenders, and those found guilty will perform community service. The governor has made it clear that no one will be sent to prison at this stage,” Okungbowa explained.
The initiative underscores the state government’s commitment to keeping Benin City clean, orderly, and free from traffic congestion, ensuring a safer and more efficient urban environment.