Anger and frustration have reached boiling point at Benue Modern Market as traders took the drastic step of shutting down their businesses indefinitely. The complete lockdown comes as a direct response to what market leaders describe as "persistent and escalating" cases of car theft that have left the business community feeling vulnerable and abandoned.
Market Grinds to Halt Over Security Failures
The once-bustling commercial hub in Makurdi now stands eerily quiet, with gates locked and shops deserted. This radical protest action follows multiple incidents where traders' vehicles were stolen from the market premises, despite repeated appeals to security agencies for protection.
"We can no longer watch helplessly as criminals target our members with impunity," declared a representative of the market association. "The continuous theft of vehicles has created an atmosphere of fear that makes conducting business impossible."
Traders Issue Ultimatum to Authorities
The market closure serves as both a protest and a desperate cry for help. Business owners are demanding immediate and concrete action from both state and local government authorities, including:
- Enhanced security patrols around the market perimeter
- Installation of surveillance cameras at strategic locations
- Regular police presence during and after business hours
- Swift investigation and recovery of stolen vehicles
Economic Impact Felt Across Benue
The shutdown of Benue Modern Market has created ripple effects throughout the local economy. As one of the major commercial centers in the region, the closure affects not only the traders but also customers, suppliers, and service providers who depend on the market's daily operations.
Local residents have expressed solidarity with the traders' plight, acknowledging that the car theft epidemic reflects broader security challenges facing the community. Many hope this dramatic action will finally prompt the decisive response that previous complaints failed to achieve.
The market will remain closed until satisfactory security measures are implemented, according to traders' representatives who vow to sustain their protest until their demands are met.
