Traders in Ochanja Central Market, Onitsha, Anambra State, on Friday protested the alleged illegal construction of shops at the central section of the market and adding new shops on top of old and weak buildings in the area.
According to reports, the protesters barricaded the headquarters of the state Physical Planning Board in Amawbia, and the entrance of the Government House in Awka, displaying placards with inscriptions such as:
“Save our lives now at Ochanja Central Market, and “Ochanja Central Market is not for sale.”
Addressing newsmen, the leader of the protesters, Chief Gabriel Okwuneme, accused the market leadership of conniving with some government agents to construct new illegal buildings on old structures, calling for the immediate suspension of the construction work and arrest of those behind the act, as it posed a serious threat to lives of traders as well as their means of livelihood
He also appealed to Gov. Willie Obiano to intervene to avert building collapse capable of taking lives and properties in the market.
Reacting to their request, Mr Chike Maduekwe, Managing Director, Physical Planning Board, appealed for calm while assuring the protesters that their complaints would be attended to, noting that he will meet with all concerned stakeholders, including the traders next week, to resolve the matter.
