The Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to eliminating criminal activities from the renowned Lokpanta Cattle Market in Umunneochi Local Government Area and transforming it into a non-residential area.
Otti reiterated this stance during an impromptu visit to the Lokpanta Cattle Market, located along the Enugu-Umuahia-Aba-Port Harcourt Expressway while returning to Abia from Enugu State on a personal trip.
He emphasized that his administration is dedicated to safeguarding law-abiding traders in the market and providing them with necessary support. However, he emphasized that the government will no longer permit individuals to reside within the premises of the market.
During his visit, Governor Otti inspected the ongoing construction of a perimeter fence aimed at securing the market, which has previously been a haven for criminals. He expressed concern over the unsanitary conditions of the market and advised the traders to maintain cleanliness in their surroundings.”I happened to be passing by and decided to halt and assess the progress of the work being carried out here. I am pleased to see that work is advancing rapidly. I also commend your collaboration with the Special Adviser on Security to the Governor and the Ministry of Lands and Housing to ensure the security of this location. I observed that the abattoir area is highly unclean and malodorous. Therefore, it is imperative to maintain cleanliness as it directly impacts public health. It is your responsibility to keep the abattoir and all surroundings clean.”We are determined to eradicate criminal activities in this area. We will support legitimate businesses to thrive. Hence, my reason for stopping here is to evaluate the environment and the progress of the work being done, and I am pleased to see the smooth progress.”
Governor Otti expressed gratitude to the traders and their leaders for their cooperation and assistance in achieving the government’s objective of securing the market and transforming it into a non-residential zone. One of the market leaders, Alhaji Danladi, expressed appreciation to the governor for his visit and conveyed satisfaction that the government prioritizes the welfare and interests of the cattle traders.
From: Nwakaji Peace Martins
