USELU-In light of the recent protests and misrepresentations surrounding the Iyaloja Market dispute, the Executive Chairman of Egor Local Government Area, Hon. Osaro Osa Eribo, has addressed the public to clarify his role and debunk politically motivated allegations aimed at discrediting his office.

Speaking to concerned stakeholders and protesters at the Council Secretariat, Hon. Eribo categorically stated that his administration has maintained strict neutrality on the matter. He emphasized that although various market factions had approached him with conflicting positions, he deliberately refrained from interfering in the market leadership tussle, noting that there are already existing litigations over who should be the market association president. He added that his decision was in line with respecting the autonomy of such institutions.

“My office is not an avenue for political manipulation or favoritism,” the Chairman asserted. “As the Chief Security Officer of Egor, my mandate is to protect lives and property — not to impose leadership or engage in market politics.”

Hon. Eribo revealed that his intervention came only after receiving credible intelligence from the Department of State Services (DSS), which indicated a plot by criminal elements to exploit the situation and potentially set the market ablaze.

According to him, his actions were purely preventive and necessary to safeguard public peace and protect the investments of market women, many of whom rely on micro-loans and daily income to support their families.

“We had no choice but to act swiftly,” he said. “Our intelligence showed that hoodlums planned to hijack the situation, leading to chaos and possibly arson. I intervened strictly to ensure that no life or property was lost.”

He stressed that the use of his office to avert a security crisis should not be misconstrued as political interference, adding that it is unfortunate that some individuals have sought to politicize his genuine efforts to maintain order.

“The accusations of political bias are unfounded, baseless, and simply an attempt to distract from the real issues,” Hon. Eribo noted. “Those peddling false narratives should understand that governance must always prioritize public safety over private or political interests.”

He called on all market stakeholders and community leaders to reject attempts to sow division and instead work together through peaceful dialogue. He assured them that his administration remains focused on development, economic empowerment, and the promotion of communal harmony.

“I remain committed to serving all residents of Egor Local Government without fear or favor. Peace and unity are non-negotiable if we must continue to grow as a community,” he concluded.

For media inquiries or clarifications, please contact: The Office of Chief Press Secretary to the Chairman,Egor Local Government.