Community Leaders Back Market Development in Ebonyi State
In Owutu Edda, located in the Edda Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, traditional rulers and key community stakeholders have firmly rejected claims that the existing Owutu market will be demolished. They labeled these assertions as false and misleading, and voiced their support for the proposed construction of a new community market in Ekentaite.
The group met with Chima Ekuma Nakama, the Chairman of Edda Local Government Council, at the Guzu City Council Headquarters. During this visit, they issued a joint statement expressing their backing for the project and encouraging residents to dismiss what they described as misinformation intended to incite unnecessary distress.
The statement was co-signed by various leaders, including Mr. Eze Ama Otu Uzor, the Traditional Ruler of Owutu Autonomous Community, representatives from the Owutu Edda Development Association, and executives from both the Owutu Market Traders Association and the Owutu Youth Association.
Mr. Otu Uzor emphasized that there are no plans from the council to demolish the existing market. He noted that neither the council chairman nor other government officials had communicated any such intentions to the community.
He elaborated that the new regional market is a crucial economic initiative aimed at broadening commercial activities, attracting investments, creating jobs, and establishing Edda as a key commercial hub in the state.
According to him, the council has continuously assured that once trading activities transition to the new market, the existing market structure will remain intact and be repurposed for community benefit. “This initiative should be seen as an opportunity rather than a threat. The claims regarding the demolition of the existing market are unfounded and speculative,” he affirmed.
Mr. Otu Uzor also distanced the community from recent media conferences held by individuals claiming to represent Otu Edda youth, stating that the recognized traditional organizations and associations were not consulted. He cautioned residents to verify information before making public statements that could undermine confidence in governmental initiatives.
Echoing these sentiments, George Uchechukwu, Chairman of the Owutu Edda Development Association, along with Fabian Agwu Okpani, Chairman of the Owutu Market Traders Association, reaffirmed the community’s commitment to peace and development. They commended the Council President for initiating this landmark economic project and pledged their continued support for its successful realization.
In response to the community’s support, Chima Ekuma Nakama emphasized that the decision to establish a regional market followed extensive consultations. He explained that the current market, servicing the entire clan, has become inadequate for the region’s evolving commercial demands. “Edda has come of age,” he stated, highlighting the need for a modern market equipped with essential facilities such as warehouses, transportation hubs, and commercial plazas.
This initiative aims not only to benefit the community in the present but also to lay a foundation for future generations and attract investment opportunities. The Ekenta Ite regional market is nearing completion and is expected to enhance trading prospects for farmers, vendors, transport operators, artisans, and investors, thereby stimulating economic growth and positioning Edda as a leading commercial center in Ebonyi State.
