Abia Assembly Bans Traders From Blocking Port Harcourt Road, Passes Startup Bill To Empower Young Innovators

.... Speaker Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa leads decisive legislative actions to restore order in Aba and boost youth entrepreneurship through innovation-driven policies

The Abia State House of Assembly has issued a 14-day ultimatum to generator and street traders obstructing traffic along the newly constructed Port Harcourt Road, Aba, directing them to immediately vacate the road and adjoining streets or risk having their wares confiscated.

The directive followed a motion moved by the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Ihuoma Emeruwa, during plenary on Tuesday, highlighting the "serious obstruction and safety hazards" caused by traders who have converted parts of the road into a makeshift market.

Emeruwa emphasized that while the government supports the entrepreneurial spirit of Aba traders, public safety and order must not be compromised. He warned that after the 14-day grace period, the Abia State Task Force will move in to enforce compliance and remove all illegal trading structures or goods obstructing the road.

"We support the hardworking spirit of Aba traders, but business should not inconvenience others or endanger lives. The state has provided designated areas for trade, and everyone must operate within those boundaries," the Speaker declared.

The directive is part of the Assembly's renewed effort to support the urban renewal vision of Governor Alex Otti, ensuring that multi-billion-naira road projects in Aba are not undermined by unregulated trading activities.

STARTUP BILL PASSED TO BOOST INNOVATION AND JOB CREATION

In a landmark legislative achievement during the same plenary, the House of Assembly passed the Abia State Startup Bill, 2025 (H.A.B. 32), sponsored by Hon. Uchenna Okoro, after its third reading.

Speaker Emeruwa described the bill as a "gift to Abia's talented youth and innovators," noting that it aims to create an enabling environment for startups, digital technology, and innovation.

He explained that the bill will foster creativity, attract investors, and generate jobs, positioning Abia as a forward-thinking hub for technological and entrepreneurial advancement.

"This law is designed to create a foundation for sustainable economic growth and innovation. It will empower our young people, foster job creation, and place Abia on the national map for digital enterprise," he said.

Once assented to by Governor Alex C. Otti, the law will officially come into effect on October 29, 2025.

Emeruwa concluded by reaffirming the Assembly's commitment to legislating for both the present and future of Abia State - ensuring safety and order today while building a foundation for prosperity and innovation tomorrow.