In a bid to foster inclusive governance and address pressing market-related concerns, the Executive Chairman of Udenu Local Government Area — Aka Eze Aka, held an interactive session with the amalgamated Associations of Obollo Afor Market Traders. The meeting, which took place at Obollo Afor, was facilitated by the Senior Special Assistant to the Chairman on Political Matters, Chief Basil Obetta.
The gathering served as a platform for the Chairman to appreciate the traders for their support during his election campaign five months ago. More importantly, it provided an opportunity to address key infrastructural projects, tax/revenue reforms, and environmental concerns affecting the traders and customers at Obollo Afor Market.
Aka Eze highlighted several state-backed projects as well as Local Government infrastructural development projects, currently being undertaken in Udenu, emphasizing their significance in improving the socioeconomic conditions of the people. These projects include the Green Smart Schools, Type II Healthcare Centers, the 1KM link road between Old Oturkpo Road and New Makurdi Road, and the 19.8KM Obollo-Eke-Isienu-Ibenda-Okpakerekere-Ogwu Obollo Afor road.
1KM Link Road Connecting Old Oturkpo Road to New Makurdi Road
One of the major concerns raised by traders and customers was the little delay in completing the 1KM link road that passes through Ozo Ji – Ukwu Akpu Obollo Afor Market. The Chairman assured that the road, which encountered minor logistical setbacks, will be completed before the third week of next month.
This link road is expected to significantly ease traffic congestion in the market area, facilitating smoother movement of goods and services. The completion of this road will not only boost trade by improving accessibility but will also ease marketers tension, thus stimulating economic growth.
19.8KM Obollo-Eke-Isienu-Ibenda-Okpakerekere-Ogwu Obollo Afor Road
Another critical project discussed was the 19.8KM Obollo-Eke-Isienu-Ibenda-Okpakerekere-Ogwu Obollo Afor road, which is crucial for rural-urban connectivity. Given the financial constraints of the Local Government, the Chairman revealed that he is in discussions with the Enugu State Government for partnership, in order to secure counterpart funding for the project.
When completed, the road will drastically reduce transportation costs for traders and farmers moving goods to and from the market. Additionally, it will enhance access to social services such as healthcare and education for rural dwellers, while fostering local trade and commerce. The road connects over 12 Communities, harboring over 110,000 population of adult men and women in their productive ages.
Modernization of Obollo Afor Market and Motor Park
In an effort to upgrade market infrastructure, the Chairman announced plans to asphalt the Obollo Afor Motor Park and renovate the market. This facelift will not only improve the aesthetic appeal of the market but will also create a more organized and efficient trading environment. The enhancement of the motor park will ensure better traffic flow, reducing vehicular congestion and improving overall accessibility.
Drainage Overhaul to Combat Flooding
Flooding has long been a menace in Obollo Afor Market, particularly during the rainy season. A recent report by the Udenu Economic Team identified poor drainage systems as the root cause of the problem. In response, the Chairman announced plans for a complete overhaul of the market’s drainage systems.
To ensure the success of this project, he issued a directive for all structures obstructing waterways, especially along Obollo Eke Road down to Apo Filling Station axis, to be removed. The execution of this drainage system overhaul will drastically reduce the risk of floods, protecting traders’ goods from water damage and ensuring safer trading conditions.
Taxation Reform: Eliminating Multiple Taxation
A major issue raised by traders during the meeting was multiple taxation, which has been a persistent challenge for businesses in the market. In response, Aka declared that all revenue collection must now be centralized under the Local Government Revenue Authority.
He issued a stern warning against unauthorized tax collectors who have been extorting traders using unfounded entitlements. He also warned against those doing so in the guise of government-sanctioned revenue agents. He emphasized that henceforth, any trader paying levies to unauthorized individuals or groups does so at their own risk.
This tax reform will provide much-needed relief to market traders, ensuring that they operate in a fair and regulated business environment. By eliminating extortion and streamlining tax collection, traders can reinvest in their businesses, leading to increased productivity and overall economic growth.
Relocation of Timber Dealers and Market Expansion
Responding to an appeal from the Chairman of the Timber Dealers Association, the Chairman assured that plans are underway to relocate timber dealers to a more spacious area within the market. This relocation will improve operational efficiency, reduce congestion, and create a better trading environment for both timber merchants and other market traders and customers.
Additionally, the expansion of market space will create room for new businesses, attracting more traders and boosting commerce in Obollo Afor.
Environmental Sanitation and Slaughter Market Rejuvenation
To improve hygiene and public health, Aka announced the introduction of a monthly sanitation exercise in the market. This routine cleanup will ensure that Obollo Afor remains clean and conducive for trading activities.
Furthermore, he disclosed plans to rejuvenate the Ugboewu Slaughter Market, ensuring that it meets modern sanitary standards. This initiative will safeguard public health by ensuring that meat products sold in the market are processed in a clean and regulated environment.
The Chairman was accompanied to the meeting by the Vice Chairman, Hon. Mrs. Onyinye Odoh, the Secretary to the Local Government Area, Rt. Hon. Chika Aroh, the Leader of Udenu Legislative Council, Rt. Hon. Dr. Nnamdi Odoh, Chief of Staff to the Chairman, Dr. Jude Ukwueze, Senior Special Assistant on Political Matters, Chief Basil Obetta, and Hon. Onyekachi C Ugwu.
A New Dawn for Obollo Afor Market
The Chairman’s interactive session with traders marks a significant step toward a more inclusive and development-driven governance. By addressing key infrastructural deficits, streamlining tax collection, and prioritizing sanitation, Hon. Aka Eze Aka is laying the foundation for a more prosperous and organized Obollo Afor Market.
These initiatives, when completed, will not only enhance trade but also improve the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. With a commitment to transparent leadership and people-centered governance, Udenu LGA is set for a new era of growth and economic transformation.
© Media Office of Udenu LG Chairman.
