The Anambra State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to restoring peace, unity and effective administration at Ogbogwu Market, Onitsha, amid a lingering leadership crisis.
The Commissioner for Commerce, Hon. Nomso Chukwuma Ebonwu, stated this on Tuesday, September 8, during a stakeholders’ meeting with the market leadership and representatives of relevant regulatory and security agencies at his office in Awka.
The meeting was convened to address the leadership crisis in the market, strengthen regulatory compliance and ensure that government officials carrying out their lawful duties are not harassed or obstructed.
Addressing the stakeholders, Ebonwu said the state government was taking decisive steps to end the disputes and divisions within the market and establish a clear framework for its administration.
He disclosed that the government was finalising an Executive Order to provide clear directives on the administration of the market and strengthen compliance with government regulations.
The Commissioner stressed that officials of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), as well as authorised security personnel, must be allowed to perform their statutory responsibilities without intimidation, harassment or obstruction.
He noted that their presence in the market was in furtherance of public safety, lawful regulation and security.
Ebonwu reaffirmed that Mr. Ndubisi Chilota remains the chairman recognised by the Anambra State Government, stressing that the government would not recognise parallel leadership or factional structures in the market.
He urged all groups involved in the dispute to sheathe their differences, embrace dialogue and work towards genuine reconciliation and lasting peace in the interest of traders and the wider market community.
The Commissioner warned that individuals or groups who deliberately violate government directives, organise activities aimed at undermining the recognised leadership or obstruct authorised government officials would be dealt with in accordance with the law.
He also called on traders and market leaders to cooperate with regulatory and security agencies, stressing that a peaceful and properly regulated market was essential for protecting businesses, consumers and the wider public.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Commerce, Engr. Michael Obiekwe, appreciated the Commissioner and representatives of the various agencies for their participation and commitment to resolving the challenges confronting the market.
Those in attendance included the Head of NAFDAC, Anambra State, Dr. Felix Madubuta; Mr. Ezenduka Chike, representative of the Anambra State security outfit, Agunechemba; CSP Ogbonnaya, Operations Officer, Anambra State Police Command; Mr. Nnadozie Godwin, Special Adviser to the Governor on Pharmaceuticals (SPAD); Mr. Francis Iloduba, Director, Market Department, Ministry of Commerce; and Mrs. Lovelne Ezeude, representing the Legal Department of the Ministry.
The meeting is expected to pave the way for the implementation of the government’s final directives, with emphasis on unified leadership, regulatory compliance, security and lasting peace at Ogbogwu Market.
