Jos main market at Terminus and shops in adjoining streets were shuttered on Tuesday in commemoration of the World Igbo Day, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports.

The President-General, Igbo community in Jos, Mr. Jonah Ezekwueme, told NAN that the order to close the market and adjoining shops was not an affront to the state government

He said that the Igbos were largely engaged in commerce and needed their businesses shut to enable them to mark the day which holds once a year.

“We have not actually shut down the state commercially as have been alleged in some quarters; we are only celebrating World Igbo Day today.”

Ezekwueme also debunked allegations that the Igbos use the day as an opportunity to fly the defunct ‘Biafra’ flag.

“Igbos are loyal Nigerians we are not using the occasion as an opportunity to hoist the `Biafra' flag; we are peace loving people in Plateau.

“We use the day to pray for the peace of the state and the nation at large.

“We, however, hope that the Plateau government will come to our aid in terms of political appointments, due to our commitment to the development of the state.

“We pay our dues and taxes promptly and deserve some attention; our celebration has nothing to do with MASSOB.

“Governor Simon Lalong should come to our aid by first repairing roads in Adamu Jenta, Apata, Rukuba in the main township of Jos massively occupied by Igbos.”

The president-general further requested the state government to appoint an Igbo resident its Commissioner of Trade and Industry for the state to witness industrial revolution within four years.

According to him, the Igbo Day is being celebrated with a symposium and prayers, adding that it is devoid of ceremonies, eating and drinking.

“We are in a sober mood; no activity, except prayers, talks and symposium.”

Ezekwueme further used the opportunity to urge President Muhammadu Buhari to reflect federal character in his appointments. (NAN)

•Photo shows Jos Main Market.

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