Traders at the Onitsha Main Market have appeal to Governor Chukwuma Soludo to resist the plot by certain individuals to remove the incumbent Caretaker Committee Chairman of the market, Chief Innocent Ezeoha.
Angel Network News (ANN) gathered that
the plot to remove Ezeoha, is being orchestrated by officials within the State Ministry of Trade and Commerce, led by Chief Evaristus Uba, the Governor’s Special Adviser on Markets.
Speaking through their coordinator, Chief Ibeme Victor, the traders warned of the potential instability that could arise from such a move, especially at a politically sensitive time when the Governor is seeking re-election.
They cautioned that the removal of a market leader under these circumstances could disrupt the peace and order currently enjoyed in the market.
The traders alleged that the Special Adviser and his associates have already concluded plans to install a new caretaker committee, pending final approval from Governor Soludo.
They urged the Governor to reject any such proposal that might reach his desk.
“We see no justification for the removal of Chief Ezennia. He has committed no offense against the government or the traders.
“If, however, his removal is deemed necessary, a formal election should be conducted to select his replacement. Alternatively, the government should appoint someone from Zone 3, in line with the rotational structure of market leadership.” Chief Ibeme said
Explaining the zoning tradition further, Chief Ibeme noted: “The previous chairman was from Zone 1, Chief Ezennia is from Zone 2, so by our market’s structure, leadership should now move to Zone 3. But again, we ask,why remove Chief Ezennia at all, given his efforts in defending both the interests of the state and the traders?”
Ibeme as also alleged financial motives behind the planned removal
“This is pure injustice. Perhaps they heard that Chief Ezennia remitted ₦340 million to the state government and now want to hijack control to access the funds. This man has performed exceptionally well. Why drag Main Market back into chaos?”he stated.
He also criticized the silence of the Special Adviser regarding a separate allegation.
“Why hasn’t SPAD addressed the ₦300,000 won by Main Market women during the ASMATA-organized match pass in support of Soludo’s re-election? That money is still being held by the ASMATA PG.” he added.
Lady Vero Nnemba also voiced her concern: “We question whether SPAD and his allies truly support Governor Soludo. If they do, why are they undermining a market leader like Chief Ezennia, who has consistently advanced the Governor’s agenda? He is an exceptional leader who balances the interests of both the government and traders.”
Another trader, Elder Paulinus Chukwuemerie, appealed directly to the Governor: “Governor Soludo, please intervene. You’ve always considered the Main Market the pride of Anambra and Africa.
“Through Chief Ezennia’s dynamic leadership, we’ve seen real development, including improved road infrastructure. Don’t allow us to return to an era of thuggery and exploitation. We place our hope in you.”
