Roadside vendors in Ado-Ekiti, the capital of Ekiti State, have been given a two-week ultimatum by Governor Biodun Oyebanji to move their wares to the brand new, state-of-the-art Agric Olope Market.
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Traders using unapproved roadside areas were ordered by Oyebanji, who made the announcement during a meeting with market women in Ado Ekiti’s Palace of Ewi, to move to the newly constructed market by June 23 or face legal consequences.
The governor emphasised that Ado-Ekiti is the capital of the state and that its economic and infrastructure development are linked.
He asked the traders to back his administration’s policy of order and safety in the city, saying that street trading is dangerous for people’s health.
In his description of the recently finished market, he listed all the features that would make trading there more convenient and efficient, such as a water supply, modern restrooms, a good road network, security infrastructure, warehouses, solar lights for night trading, and more.
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The governor thanked the merchants for their readiness to move and reassured them that his administration is still dedicated to improving the lives of its constituents and transforming Ado Ekiti into a sophisticated and contemporary metropolis.
We just finished an ultra-modern market for the market ladies, and we want them to move in. Today’s meeting is only to consult with them, which reflects our belief in consulting rather than forcing them.
After consulting with Ewi and the Ewi-in-Council, we reached a consensus: the market women should be brought to the palace for the purpose of reaching an accord.
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Thank goodness we were able to come to an agreement; after all, we live in a democratic country where consultation is essential; we would never dream of imposing our will on the people who elected us. By the middle of the month, they aim to begin moving without resorting to force, as they have pledged.
We consulted with them to find out what they needed, and then we developed the market according to their specifications. To ensure their comfort, we have given water, toilets, security, warehouses, parking space, and more,” the governor stated.
“I don’t expect anybody to default, but within a group of people there are some that will not want to align with us,” the governor stated when asked about the consequences for those who default.
They have to quit street trading since it is unhealthy, dangerous, and they don’t make any money, and we will make sure they do it. Anyone who defies the agreement made today will be subject to the full force of the law.”
The Commissioner for Trade, Industry, Investment, and cooperatives, Mrs. Tayo Adeola, welcomed the guests and praised Governor Oyebanji for his forward-thinking leadership in finishing the state-of-the-art Agric Olope Market.
The market is a reflection of the governor’s dedication to boosting the economy of Ado Ekiti and providing better conditions for traders, according to Mrs. Adeola.
Traders are strongly encouraged by Adeola to start collecting paperwork for the new market’s store and space allotment next week on Tuesday.