Market women from Oba Market in Benin City, Edo State, have staged a strong protest against an eviction notice issued by the state government. The notice is part of plans to renovate the section of the market that was previously damaged by fire.
Protest Causes Major Disruption in Benin City
The protesting women gathered at Oba Ovonramwen Square, also known as Ring Road, causing significant traffic congestion and forcing vehicles to use adjacent streets. From there, the group proceeded to the Edo State House of Assembly to seek immediate government intervention and present their grievances.
History of Broken Promises and New Plans
Oba Market was one of five markets destroyed by fire after the 2020 governorship election in Edo State. The former Governor, Godwin Obaseki, had pledged to rebuild the affected markets, but this promise was not fulfilled. This failure led to the burnt areas becoming waste dumpsites.
The current Governor, Monday Okpebholo, recently visited the market and pledged to reconstruct the damaged sections. Following this visit, the market women were given a two-month notice to vacate the premises to allow for the renovation work to begin.
Traders Voice Their Concerns and Fears
A trader, Florence Eweka, expressed shock at the sudden directive to vacate without proper arrangements for their relocation. She emphasized the need for adequate preparation before displacing traders, pointing to the ongoing challenges with the reconstruction at Ekiosa Market.
Another trader, Mary Okosun, questioned the government's relocation strategy. "Where do they want us to pack to? If they want us to pack, they should make provisions for us. Those in other markets are stranded; where do they want us to pack to?" she said. Okosun, who operates four shops with six employees, felt completely unprepared for the move.
Government Assurance and Next Steps
The Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Blessing Agbebaku, addressed the protesters and assured them that their concerns would be communicated to the governor. He reiterated that Governor Okpebholo's intention is to rebuild the market for the benefit of the traders.
"We are your representatives, and any problem that is brought before us here will be sorted out," Agbebaku stated. "Governor Monday Okpebholo meant well for your market... He wants to renovate the market. But you are saying that not all the markets were gutted. So, we are going to pass the information to him."
He explained the proposed phased approach: "The area that was burned down will be rebuilt, then you people will move in there, then the other parts will be rebuilt. The governor wants a better market for you all."
