Hundreds of traders at the popular Old Gbagi-Ogunpa Market in Ibadan North-West Local Government Area of Oyo have appealed to Governor Seyi Makinde to intervene in the provision of basic amenities and improved security in the market. The traders, under the Gbagi-Ogunpa Joint Traders Association, made this appeal citing the lack of adequate lighting, which has left them and passersby vulnerable to attacks, particularly at night.
The President of the Gbagi-Ogunpa Joint Traders Association, Olaitan Adam Abiodun, made the appeal in an interview on the sidelines of the association’s 27th anniversary. He urged the governor to accord the market greater recognition and support, saying the facility had contributed significantly to the growth of commercial activities in Ibadan. Abiodun noted that Old Gbagi Market played a major role in the emergence of other markets across the 11 local government areas of Ibadanland.
According to Abiodun, despite its significant contributions, Old Gbagi Market had remained largely underdeveloped. He contrasted it with other markets in Ibadan, which enjoy basic amenities. The association's president highlighted the challenges faced by traders, particularly in the evenings when the market is in total darkness, making them vulnerable to attacks.
Abiodun mentioned that miscreants often hide under the cover of darkness to loot warehouses and dispossess passersby of their belongings. He urged the government to assist with the "Lit up Gbagi" and other projects designed to reposition the market. The association is seeking government intervention to address these issues and improve the overall trading environment.
The Financial Secretary of the association, Adesola Adesina, emphasized that traders are contributing to the state’s economy through the payment of taxes. He urged the political leadership in the state to consider the contribution of traders to the economy and respond to their demands for improved infrastructure and security. Adesina's comments underscored the traders' commitment to the state's economic growth.
The traders' appeal to Governor Makinde highlights the need for government intervention in the development of Old Gbagi Market. The market's underdevelopment and lack of basic amenities have significant implications for traders and the broader community. The Gbagi-Ogunpa Joint Traders Association's efforts to bring attention to these issues demonstrate their commitment to improving the market's conditions.
The situation at Old Gbagi Market reflects a broader challenge faced by many markets in Nigeria, where inadequate infrastructure and security hinder economic growth. The outcome of the traders' appeal to Governor Makinde will be closely watched, as it may have implications for the development of similar markets across the country. The traders' concerns and proposed solutions will likely influence the government's response to their appeal.
Key points
- Traders at Old Gbagi-Ogunpa Market in Ibadan seek government intervention for basic amenities and improved security.
- The market's underdevelopment and lack of adequate lighting have made traders vulnerable to attacks.
- The traders' association has proposed projects, including "Lit up Gbagi," to address the market's challenges.
