By Owen Eresoyen, Benin
As local traders continue to express mixed feelings concerning the contentious issue surrounding the privatization of the Ughele Market in Auchi, the Executive Chairman of Etsako West Local Government Council, Hon. Marvelous Muhizu Zibiri, has firmly refuted the allegations of mortgaging the Ughele Market stating that the claims are unfounded.
Debunking the allegation, the Chairman stated that due consultations were genuinely made with the Auchi traditional rulers council, the market union including the representatives of the Ughele market women association in attendance at the groundbreaking ceremony on August 15, 2024. He explained that the decision to partner with investors for the Ughele market remodelling was to enhance the market infrastructure and improve facilities for traders and customers. “Our goal was to create a better environment for our local entrepreneurs to thrive, not to diminish their operations,” he emphasized.
While suing for calmness and peace, the Chairman has expressed his readiness to work with the relevant stakeholders and community leaders for more dialogue and constructive re-engagements. “I am committed to fostering open lines of communication with all community members. We shall make further consultations and meetings to discuss our plans and listen to the concerns of every trader and resident,” Hon. Zibiri said.
As a representative of the people at the local level, Hon. Zibiri assured all community stakeholders of his genuine intentions and unwavering commitments towards improving market conditions to enhance commercial activities for local traders in the local government area.