MIXED REACTION AS ABIA STATE GOVT COMMENCES REMODELING OF EKEOHA TEXTILE MARKET, ABA

REPORTER: PEACE AGBO

The popular textile market in Aba, the commercial hub of Abia State, Ekeoha Shopping Centre is to be remodeled to avert looming disaster.

Speaking at commencement of the reconstruction of the textile market, Governor Alex Otti explained that move became necessary following the ugly incident that occurred at the market in July 2023.

The Governor noted that the reconstruction, which would be carried out in phases, when completed would meet the dynamic needs of traders and their prospective customers.

He give an assurance to the traders of proactive steps by the government to ensure that financial leverages were provided to traders genuinely interested in acquiring shops, especially the original allotees who shall retain the right of first refusal in the re-allocation process.

The Governor Otti urged the developer to carry out the reconstruction according to time and specifications.

According to him, trading activities shall be allowed to continue on other sections as necessary safety measures shall be put in place to reduce risks of injuries at the area.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Trade, Commerce and Industry, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, also assured that on completion of the project, the market would open up new opportunities for traders and serve as a catalyst to the development of Aba.

The Commissioner advised the traders to embrace the changes in the market and called on all stakeholders to support the project.

Investigations by Radio Nigeria revealed that most of the shops in the market were not constructed according to the original master plan of the market.

Meanwhile, in a mixed reaction, some the traders, including Mrs. Wendy Ekenna, Mr. Kalu Uwa and Mr. Festus Chukwudi, said the reconstruction would adversely affect most the traders, in this harsh economic situation.

They noted that widows who occupied their late husbands’ shops might not have the capacity to reacquire their shops when completed, considering the terms and conditions of the government.

However, some traders, who described the remodeling of the market as a welcome development, called for timely delivery.

EDITED BY CHUKWUBUIKE MADU