CurrentReport Blog In a decisive move to restore public trust and protect local businesses, the Benue State government has terminated the long-term lease of the Makurdi Modern Market to private investors, reverting full ownership back to the government. This significant development was announced on Thursday by Mnyim Fidelis, the Benue State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice and Public Order.
Reverting Ownership: A Step Towards Alleviating Traders’ Hardships
The Makurdi Modern Market was leased to private investors by the immediate past administration, a decision that led to widespread discontent among traders. The private owners were criticized for imposing arbitrary taxes and neglecting the market’s infrastructure and services, causing undue hardship for local business operators.
Mnyim Fidelis expressed gratitude to Governor Hyacinth Alia for facilitating the market’s return to government control, a move seen as a commitment to protecting the interests of the traders. He emphasized that the market’s reversion would alleviate the financial and operational burdens faced by the traders under private management.
“The government is dedicated to ensuring that the market serves the needs of the traders and the community effectively,” Mnyim stated. He urged traders to report any unauthorized levy demands to security agencies, ensuring that such exploitative practices are eradicated.
Positive Reactions from Traders and Officials
The decision has been met with widespread approval from the traders, who praised Governor Alia for his proactive stance in reclaiming the market. They expressed optimism that the government’s ownership would revive business activities and create a more conducive environment for commerce.
“The return of the market to government control is a welcome development. It gives us hope for better business opportunities and fair treatment,” one trader remarked.
Accompanying Mnyim at the market were the Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Alumo Orpin, and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Market Coordination, Isaac Akaanger. Their presence underscored the government’s commitment to directly addressing the concerns of the traders and ensuring smooth transition and management.
Ongoing Investigations and Future Prospects
The termination of the lease is part of broader efforts by the Benue State government to scrutinize past agreements involving the sale or lease of government properties. The Benue State Commission of Inquiry is actively investigating these transactions to ensure transparency and accountability.
The reclamation of the Makurdi Modern Market is a significant step in this process, aimed at restoring public confidence and enhancing economic activities within the state.
The Benue State government’s actions reflect a dedicated effort to support local businesses and ensure that public resources are managed in the best interests of the community. As the market transitions back to government control, stakeholders remain hopeful for a revitalized and thriving commercial hub in Makurdi.
