Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has promised traders at the Oba Market that they would be allocated shops without payment.

The Oba Market whose reconstruction has neared completion was gutted by fire in 2020.

Governor Okpebholo made the promise to provide shops to the traders without any payment when he led top government officials and party leaders on an inspection tour of the facility.

He thanked traders and market women for their patience and cooperation throughout the reconstruction process, saying, the reconstructed market would be allocated free of charge to genuine traders and previous occupants.

According to him, “I want to thank the market women and traders for their cooperation and support which contributed greatly to the successful completion of the Oba Market reconstruction project.

“I came here today after seeing reports and complaints from some traders about the section of the market that is yet to be completed. Their concerns touched me deeply and that is why I decided to visit personally.

“Those traders who are yet to get spaces will first be accommodated in the newly completed section. We also have another government-owned building behind the market which will be reconstructed for the benefit of traders.

“Traders operating outside will also be moved into the main market so they can trade in a safer and more comfortable environment protected from rain and harsh weather conditions. No trader will be required to pay for shop allocation.

“We are committed to restoring the pride of Oba Market and improving the welfare of traders and business owners. Our administration will continue to work to make Edo people happy,” he added.

Leaders that accompanied the Governor were Edo Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa, former Deputy Governors Pius Odubu and Lucky Imasuen, Senator Matthew Urhoghide, Major General Charles Ehigie Airhiavbere, Edo State APC Secretary, Lawrence Okah, amongst others.

Odubu described the project as world-class.

“I have travelled across different parts of the world and what we are seeing here today can compare favourably with modern markets in Dubai. G. (The Nation)