Governor Monday Okpebholo has lauded the collaborative spirit of traders for the successful completion of the Oba Market reconstruction project, following a devastating fire in June 2020.
The historic market, a vital economic hub in Benin City, was reduced to ashes in the blaze.
On Friday, Governor Okpebholo, accompanied by Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa, top government officials, and party leaders, conducted an inspection tour of the rebuilt facility. He expressed his gratitude to the market men and women for their patience and cooperation during the reconstruction process, which spanned approximately six years.
“Your understanding made it possible for the contractors to complete the project successfully,” the Governor stated, acknowledging the challenges faced during the rebuilding phase.
Okpebholo assured the traders that the allocation of shops in the newly reconstructed market would be conducted fairly and without any charges to genuine traders and previous occupants. He addressed concerns raised by some traders regarding incomplete sections of the market, prompting his personal visit to assess the situation firsthand.
“Those traders who are yet to get spaces will first be accommodated in the newly completed section. We also have another government-owned building behind the market which will be reconstructed for the benefit of traders,” he announced.
Furthermore, he pledged to relocate traders currently operating outside the market into the main structure, providing them with a safer and more comfortable trading environment, shielded from the elements.
The Governor emphasized that all shop owners who held spaces before the fire would retain their shops upon the market’s full completion. “We are committed to restoring the pride of Oba Market and improving the welfare of traders and business owners. Our administration will continue to work to make Edo people happy,” he affirmed.
Deputy Governor Pius Odubu praised Governor Okpebholo for the high quality of the reconstruction, describing it as “world-class.” He remarked, “I have traveled across different parts of the world and what we are seeing here today can compare favorably with modern markets in Dubai. Okpebholo has done exceptionally well and Edo people are proud of this achievement.”
Former Deputy Governor Lucky Imasuen echoed these sentiments, noting that the reconstruction has “restored life and dignity to the market environment.” He added, “Traders now have a more comfortable and secure environment to conduct their businesses. This development has brought back life to the Oba Market and we are proud to be associated with this achievement.”
Senator Matthew Urhoghide commended the Governor for revitalizing economic activity in the area. He stated that the market’s reconstruction has restored hope, pride, and economic confidence in traders and residents alike.
Mrs. Grace Osunbor, a trader, expressed her gratitude to the Governor for his intervention, noting that the market is now “better than it was before the fire incident.” She added that the people of Edo State would remain grateful for the Governor’s remarkable efforts.
Other dignitaries in the Governor’s entourage included Maj.-Gen. Charles Airhiavbere and Edo State APC Secretary Lawrence Okah, among others. The reconstructed Oba Market symbolizes a renewed commitment to economic growth and the well-being of the trading community in Edo State.