Traders In Onitsha Protest Over Illegal Shops Construction

On Friday, traders in Ochanja Central Market, Onitsha, Anambra State, demonstrated their dissatisfaction over alleged illegal construction of shops at the pivotal section of the market

The protesters stormed the headquarters of the state Physical Planning Board in Amawbia, and the entrance of the Government House in Awka, as they shown their displeasure with placards with various inscriptions.

As we learnt, the placards carried inscription as: “Save our lives now at Ochanja Central Market,” Gov. Willie Obiano; Physical Planning Board why are you people keeping quiet? and “Ochanja Central Market is not for sale.”

While speaking with journalists, Chief Gabriel Okwuneme, the leader of the protesters, alleged that the leaders of the market were conniving with some government agents to construct additional shops over dilapidated buildings in the area.

Okwuneme who also appealed to Gov. Willie Obiano to come in to action to prevent building collapse capable of taking lives and properties in the market.

He further called for the immediate suspension of the construction work and arrest of those behind the act.

In his words:“We are in Awka to protest illegal construction of shops at Ochanja Central Market. The market has only one floor and the leadership is trying to build shops on its top.

“We are calling on the state government to order the suspension of the construction work because it poses serious threat to our lives as well as our means of livelihood".

Meanwhile, while reacting, Managing Director, Physical Planning Board Mr Chike Maduekwe, pacified the protesters to calm while pledging that their complaints would be put in view.

“We will meet with all concerned stakeholders, including the traders next week, to resolve the matter,” Maduekwe stated.