Benin Coty-Residents, traders and business owners at the reconstructed Oba Market in Benin City on Thursday celebrated as Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, led top government officials and party leaders on an inspection tour of the facility.

The governor, who paid an unscheduled visit to the market, was accompanied by Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa; former Deputy Governors, Pius Odubu and Lucky Imasuen; former Senator Matthew Urhoghide; Major General Charles Ehigie Airhiavbere; Edo State APC Secretary, Lawrence Okah, and other leaders from Edo South.

Traders and market women welcomed the governor and his entourage with songs and cheers, expressing appreciation for the reconstruction of the popular market, which was destroyed by fire several years ago.

Addressing traders during the visit, Governor Okpebholo thanked them for their patience and cooperation throughout the reconstruction process, noting that their support contributed to the successful completion of the project.

He assured traders that shops in the reconstructed market would be allocated free of charge to genuine traders and previous occupants.

According to the governor, traders yet to secure spaces would first be accommodated in the newly completed section, while another government-owned building behind the market would also be reconstructed to create additional spaces for traders.

Okpebholo further disclosed that traders operating outside the market would be relocated into the main market to enable them conduct business in a safer and more conducive environment.

“I want to thank the market women and traders for their cooperation and support which contributed greatly to the successful completion of the Oba Market reconstruction project,” he said.

The governor explained that his visit followed reports and complaints from some traders concerning sections of the market still awaiting completion.

He also assured traders who occupied shops before the fire incident that they would retain their spaces upon the full completion of the market.

“We are committed to restoring the pride of Oba Market and improving the welfare of traders and business owners. Our administration will continue to work to make Edo people happy,” he added.

Speaking during the inspection, former Deputy Governor, Pius Odubu, commended the governor for the quality of the reconstruction, describing the project as world-class.

“I have travelled across different parts of the world and what we are seeing here today can compare favourably with modern markets in Dubai. Governor Okpebholo has done exceptionally well and Edo people are proud of this achievement,” Odubu stated.

Also speaking, former Deputy Governor Lucky Imasuen said the reconstruction had restored life and dignity to the market environment.

“Traders now have a more comfortable and secure environment to conduct their businesses. This development has brought back life to Oba Market and we are proud to be associated with this achievement,” he said.

Former Senator Matthew Urhoghide also praised the governor for restoring the market and reviving economic activities in the area.

“The reconstruction of Oba Market has restored hope, pride and economic confidence to traders and residents. This market is now better than it was before the fire incident and Edo people are grateful to Governor Okpebholo for this remarkable intervention,” he stated.