Residents, traders, shop owners and business operators at the newly reconstructed Oba Market erupted in jubilation and celebration as Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, led top government officials and party leaders on an inspection tour of the facility.
The Governor, who paid an unscheduled visit to the market, was accompanied by Deputy Governor,Rt Hon. Dennis Idahosa, former Deputy Governors Pius Odubu and Lucky Imasuen, former Senator Matthew Urhoghide, Major General Charles Ehigie Airhiavbere, Edo State APC Secretary Lawrence Okah, and other leaders from Edo South.
During the visit, traders and market women welcomed the Governor and his entourage with songs, cheers and appreciation for the reconstruction of the popular market, which was destroyed by fire several years ago.
Governor Okpebholo thanked traders and market women for their patience and cooperation throughout the reconstruction process, noting that their understanding made it possible for the contractors to complete the project successfully.
The Governor assured traders that shops in the reconstructed market would be allocated free of charge to genuine traders and previous occupants.
“I want to thank the market women and traders for their cooperation and support which contributed greatly to the successful completion of the Oba Market reconstruction project.
“I came here today after seeing reports and complaints from some traders about the section of the market that is yet to be completed. Their concerns touched me deeply and that is why I decided to visit personally.
“Those traders who are yet to get spaces will first be accommodated in the newly completed section. We also have another government-owned building behind the market which will be reconstructed for the benefit of traders.
“Traders operating outside will also be moved into the main market so they can trade in a safer and more comfortable environment protected from rain and harsh weather conditions. No trader will be required to pay for shop allocation,” the Governor stated.
Governor Okpebholo further assured traders that all shop owners who occupied spaces before the fire incident would retain their shops upon full completion of the market.
“We are committed to restoring the pride of Oba Market and improving the welfare of traders and business owners. Our administration will continue to work to make Edo people happy,” he added.
Former Deputy Governor, Pius Odubu, commended the Governor for the quality of the reconstruction, describing the project as world-class.
“I have travelled across different parts of the world and what we are seeing here today can compare favourably with modern markets in Dubai. Governor Okpebholo has done exceptionally well and Edo people are proud of this achievement,” Odubu said.
Also speaking, former Deputy Governor Lucky Imasuen noted that the reconstruction had restored life and dignity to the market environment.
“Traders now have a more comfortable and secure environment to conduct their businesses. This development has brought back life to Oba Market and we are proud to be associated with this achievement,” he said.
Former Senator Matthew Urhoghide also praised the Governor for restoring the market and reviving economic activities in the area.
“The reconstruction of Oba Market has restored hope, pride and economic confidence to traders and residents. This market is now better than it was before the fire incident and Edo people are grateful to Governor Okpebholo for this remarkable intervention,” he stated.
