Dr Alex C. Otti Ohiya Industrial Market Umuahia belongs to the Abia State Government, but a contractor has been engaged by the government since 2011 to develop the market.
Traders at the Ohiya Industrial Market are calling on Governor Dr. Alex Otti to intervene in concerns surrounding the market’s development, management, and provision of basic infrastructure.
Here are the major issues raised by the traders:
– Development Contract: The traders have raised concerns about the development contract awarded to JO Onwuka in 2011 and are seeking clarification on its current status.
– Ministry’s Position: According to the protesters, the Ministry of Industry and SME has indicated that the contract has lapsed and should be terminated. They say they have a document from the ministry supporting their position.
– Land Allocation: The traders say some land originally allocated for their businesses has been revoked and converted to estate development. They are asking the government to review the situation and clarify the status of the affected allocations.
– Poor Road Access: The market reportedly lacks a proper access road, while the difficult terrain poses significant challenges for traders, customers, and the movement of goods.
– Lack of Basic Amenities: The traders complain about the absence of adequate toilet facilities, reliable water supply, electricity, a functional health centre, and sufficient parking spaces.
– Security Concerns: They are calling for improved security to protect traders, customers, goods, and investments within the market.
– Concerns About Treatment of Traders: Some protesters have raised concerns about alleged intimidation, harassment, and police involvement, including the reported detention of their representatives. They are seeking government intervention to address these concerns.
A CALL TO GOVERNOR ALEX OTTI
We respectfully call on His Excellency, Governor Dr. Alex Otti, to direct the relevant ministries and agencies to investigate these concerns, review the development contract, examine the land allocation issues, and establish the facts surrounding the traders’ complaints.
We also appeal to the state government to prioritise the provision of access roads, electricity, water, sanitation, healthcare, parking facilities, and adequate security.
Ohiya Industrial Market deserves the attention of the government. The traders need an enabling environment to conduct their businesses, protect their investments, create employment, and contribute to the economic development of Abia State.
We hope the government will listen to the traders, engage all relevant parties, and take appropriate action based on the findings.
Governor Alex Otti, the traders are asking for your intervention.
