BY ESE DANIELS/JULIETH EMENI
The Chairman of Uvwie Local Government Area in Delta State, Hon. Anthony Ofoni, recently conducted a market inspection across the council area to assess the state of operations in key markets.
The inspection commenced at Effurun Market along PTI Road, where Hon. Ofoni had initiated the construction of barricades to demarcate trading spaces and pedestrian walkways. This move aims to restore order and ensure a more organised trading environment.
While addressing the market traders, Ofoni expressed his disappointment over their failure to comply with the designated trading boundaries. He warned that if the task force discovered further violations, offenders would face strict penalties.
The Chairman’s tour continued at Ugborikoko Market, where he noted with dismay that a property owner had constructed a building obstructing the waterways, which blocked access to the public toilet and abattoir. Speaking to the market women and their chairman, Ofoni assured them that legal action would be taken. He directed the local councillor to serve a court notice to the landlord responsible for the illegal construction and added that the structure would be demolished to free the waterways.
Additionally, Ofoni pledged to renovate the market’s roofs, toilet facilities, and abattoir. He cautioned the market leadership and local youths against engaging in actions that could harm the community. At Ugboroke Market, which currently lacks any formal structure, Hon. Ofoni promised to build a proper market facility within two months, a move welcomed by the traders.
The inspection concluded at Ekpan Market, where Ofoni reviewed the progress of ongoing construction projects, including new shops, an abattoir, and a public toilet, to ensure that they were proceeding as scheduled.
Market women across the four locations expressed their gratitude to the Chairman for his commitment to improving their trading conditions and environments. They prayed for his success, hoping that he would fulfill the promises made during the tour.
