The Ebonyi State Government has successfully recovered 483 illegally occupied shops at the Ebonyi International Market, according to the Commissioner for Market Development and Parks, Professor Nwogo Obasi.
Speaking to journalists in Abakaliki on Tuesday, Prof. Obasi emphasized that this effort is part of comprehensive reforms aimed at restructuring the state’s marketplaces to attract both local and international investors.
He noted that prior to the current administration, the state’s market system suffered from mismanagement caused by imposed leadership, which fueled insecurity, disorganization, and violence. Obasi praised Governor Francis Nwifuru for prioritizing market reform and fostering a more business-friendly environment.
“The governor allowed traders to elect their own leaders, which brought better management, improved security, and reduced crime. Since Governor Nwifuru assumed office, there have been no recorded killings in any of our markets,” he said.
“When I took office, some individuals held up to 16 shops without paying a dime. Through a newly established database, we have retrieved 483 shops. At one point, the market generated over ₦300 million in monthly revenue,” he added.
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