Ebonyi State Government Dissolves Market Revenue Committee Amid Financial Mismanagement Allegations
The Ebonyi State Government has taken decisive action by dissolving the Revenue Committee of the Ebonyi State Integrated Building Materials Market in Abakaliki. This move comes in response to numerous complaints from traders and market stakeholders regarding alleged irregularities in revenue collection and management practices.
Government Intervention to Restore Transparency and Accountability
Addressing journalists in Abakaliki shortly after the dissolution, the State Commissioner for Market Development and Parks, Professor Nwogo Ajiuka, announced the formation of a new Revenue Committee. He emphasized that this step was necessary to restore transparency, accountability, and peace within the market environment.
Following a mediation meeting with key stakeholders, the Commissioner explained that the crisis originated from disputes over the payment of a N30,000 levy and widespread dissatisfaction with the conduct of the previous revenue committee, which had been established by the market leadership. According to him, the committee faced accusations of high-handedness and operating outside agreed procedures, leading to protests from aggrieved traders.
Establishment of a New Committee for Improved Governance
"After a series of engagements with the executives and various groups within the market, it became clear that the revenue subcommittee was not functioning in line with established guidelines. In response, we have dissolved that committee and put in place a more structured and accountable system," stated Professor Ajiuka.
He highlighted that a new committee has been constituted to oversee revenue collection and auditing processes, with a specific mandate to ensure transparency and proper documentation of market funds. The Commissioner expressed optimism that this government intervention would bring lasting peace to the market, noting that initial reactions from stakeholders have been positive.
"From what we have seen today, the traders are satisfied with the steps taken. We believe this will usher in genuine peace and improved administration," he added.
Market Leaders Welcome Government Efforts
Leaders of the market associations have welcomed the government's move, pledging their support for efforts to stabilize operations and prevent future conflicts. Chief Fidelis Onwe, President of the Integrated Building Materials Market and a member of the Ebonyi State Growth and Advisory Board, commended the Commissioner's timely intervention, emphasizing the importance of peace in sustaining business activities.
"Even before my emergence as president, my priority has always been peace. With this intervention, we are confident that stability will be maintained across the market," he said.
Chief Onwe further praised the state government for fostering a secure and business-friendly environment, noting that markets across the 13 local government areas of Ebonyi State have remained largely peaceful.
Stakeholders Express Cautious Optimism and Future Plans
In a related development, market leaders used the occasion to reaffirm their support for the state governor, citing improved security, economic support initiatives, and overall market stability as reasons for their endorsement. They announced plans to hold a rally on April 28, 2026 to demonstrate their backing and appreciation for the administration's efforts.
Other stakeholders, including leaders of trade associations such as Chief Augustine Eneh, Chairman of the Association of Tiles Dealers in the Market, and Prince Igwe Agwu, expressed cautious optimism. They urged continued dialogue and adherence to due process in market administration.
They noted that the crisis, which had threatened to disrupt commercial activities, now appears to be easing as the newly constituted committee begins work under government supervision. However, they maintained that the success of this intervention will depend largely on sustained transparency and cooperation between market leaders and traders.
