Traders and occupants of temporary structures along the SECKO Junction-Skyy Power FM stretch of the N1 Highway are protesting an eviction notice served by the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly (STMA).
At a meeting held on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, with a section of Project-Affected Persons (PAPs) for the proposed Takoradi-Cape Coast dualisation project under the government’s “Big Push” Agenda, the Assembly issued a three-day ultimatum for the relocation of all temporary structures in the area.
The ultimatum sparked outrage among those affected, with many condemning the Assembly as “inconsiderate.”
However, the Metropolitan Chief Executive, Frederick F. Faidoo, explained that the decision, though painful, was necessary. He stated that the Assembly is acting on a directive from the Ghana Highways Authority to clear all temporary structures along the highway corridor.
“While we initially granted permits to operate along the road, we are now obliged to ensure your evacuation. We called this meeting as a courtesy; otherwise, the contractor would have proceeded without consultation,” Mayor Faidoo said.
Acknowledging the deep personal and economic impact, he added, “We are all connected. Some of you have operated these businesses for over 30 years and support your families from them.”
To mitigate the immediate economic disruption, the Mayor offered a temporary reprieve: “The contractor will initially commence clearing from the SECKO Junction to Mpintsim. This will buy you some time to relocate your structures from the roadside.”
Despite these explanations, the affected traders view the conditions imposed on them as unfavourable and unjust. Many cited recently paying substantial fees to the Assembly for their operation permits.
They are pleading for the decision to be reconsidered, requesting ample time to relocate and, alternatively, a refund of their recent permit payments to finance the move.
“We cannot stop the government’s project,” one trader stated. “All we ask for is an extension to move our items. It is barely three months since the Assembly was demanding permit fee payments. What happens to the GHȼ300, GHȼ800, and GHȼ1000-plus fees we paid? We suggest a refund to help us finance the relocation.”
In a related development, the STMA is preparing to engage owners of permanent structures along the N1 that have been marked by the Ghana Highways Authority for demolition.
Sources indicate the Ministry of Roads and Highways is yet to assign a team to conduct a property evaluation of all affected properties for the requisite compensation.
By Abraham Mensah
