…..Calls for Order, Security, and Trader Protection
Citypost News Desk
The Anambra State Chairman of the Action People’s Party (APP) and frontline aspirant for the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) Chairmanship, Bldr. Chijioke Okeke (Enyioha), has described Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s plan to upgrade the Onitsha Main Market as visionary, reform-driven, and long overdue.
Speaking on Monday, Enyioha said the proposed transformation of the historic market reflects a deliberate commitment by the Soludo administration to reposition Onitsha Main Market as a modern, well-structured, and globally competitive commercial hub worthy of its reputation as the largest physical market in West Africa.
According to him, the market’s enormous economic significance to Anambra State, the South-East, and Nigeria at large demands intentional investment in modern infrastructure, improved layout, enhanced safety standards, and effective regulatory frameworks.
“For Onitsha Main Market to truly assume its rightful place on the global commercial map, there must be order, structure, security, and sustainable planning. Governor Soludo’s vision in this regard is timely and commendable,” Enyioha stated.
However, the APP chairman noted that any meaningful remodeling of a structure as vast as the Onitsha Main Market would inevitably involve demolition and reconstruction, actions which could temporarily disrupt commercial activities and affect traders’ livelihoods.
He therefore urged the state government to put in place a clear and humane compensatory framework to cushion the economic effects on affected traders during the implementation process.
“Anytime you want to remodel a structure of this magnitude, there must be demolition, and that comes with economic consequences for traders. Government should consider a compensatory framework that will cushion the impact of such actions, so that everyone is carried along and no one is unduly burdened in the process,” Enyioha said.
He stressed that inclusive planning and trader-friendly policies would strengthen trust, encourage cooperation, and ensure the smooth execution of the project.
Enyioha further noted that upgrading the market would not only boost internally generated revenue for the state but also improve traders’ welfare, attract investors, create jobs, and reinforce Anambra’s status as a major commercial nerve centre.
He also urged the state government to ensure adequate security within and around the market before, during, and after the upgrade, emphasizing that a safe and orderly trading environment is fundamental to sustainable economic growth.
The APP chairman called on traders’ unions, market leadership, and other relevant stakeholders to cooperate fully with the government, stressing that collective responsibility and compliance are essential to delivering a befitting, modern market that will serve both present and future generations of Ndi Anambra.
