By TOSIN KOLADE

The Association of Modebe Traders in Onitsha, Anambra, has appealed to the Inspector-General of Police (I-G) to intervene in a lingering dispute over market leadership, property ownership and demolition of commercial buildings.

The traders made the appeal at a news conference on Tuesday in Abuja, expressing concern over the impact of the dispute on their businesses and calling for a peaceful resolution.

Chief Okey Muojekwu, who spoke on behalf of the traders, said the disagreement had persisted for two years, adding that they wanted the relevant authorities to help resolve the issues.

Muojekwu said a plaza where some members operated their businesses was demolished in 2025, affecting traders who had invested in the property.

He said the traders were also seeking clarification on issues surrounding the ownership of the property and documents relating to it.

Muojekwu called on the appropriate authorities to examine the relevant documents and establish the facts surrounding the ownership dispute.

He expressed concern over reported security incidents, saying he had reported an alleged physical attack to the police.

He urged the police to investigate reported incidents and take appropriate measures to protect traders and prevent further conflict.

Also speaking, Mr Tochukwu Umeh, chairman of the market association, said the disagreement was also connected to the removal of some market leaders by the state government.

According to him, some of those affected had questioned the government’s decision, arguing that the leaders were elected by market members.

Umeh said the disagreement had affected the administration of the market and relations among traders.

Also speaking, Mr Onyeka Oguejiofor, a patron of the market, said some members were concerned about shop occupancy and the procedures followed in changes to market leadership.

Oguejiofor said the traders had approached the Commissioner of Police and the Police Public Relations Officer, as well as relevant market association officials to seek intervention.

He added that they had also engaged government officials responsible for trade and commerce in an effort to resolve the disagreement.

According to him, the traders are seeking a lasting solution that would protect their business interests and enable them to operate without disruption.

The traders appealed to the police and relevant state government authorities to facilitate dialogue among the parties, examine the issues raised and ensure that the rights of all concerned were respected.

They said they hoped authorities’ intervention would help resolve the dispute peacefully and restore normal business activities. (NAN)