Traders at the Old Motor Spare Parts Market (Mgbuka) in Nnewi staged a protest against their former Chairman, Mr. Chinedu Enyeribe, accusing him of refusing to step down, harassing colleagues with security personnel, and lacking accountability.
The traders, holding placards with various inscriptions, marched from the market to the Nnewi Police Area Command, where several of them had been summoned for detention.
Speaking to ABS News after being addressed by the Area Commander, Evangelist Raphael Nwufo, who introduced himself as the Caretaker Committee Chairman of the market, traders alleged that Mr. Enyeribe was initially elected for a three-year term. However, before his tenure expired, he reportedly amended the market’s constitution to extend his term by a year and has since clung to power for nearly seven years.
The President General of the Anambra State Markets Amalgamated Traders Association (ASMATA), when contacted, distanced himself from Mr. Enyeribe’s actions, prompting traders to challenge his prolonged stay in office. This resistance allegedly led to Mr. Enyeribe using police and security personnel to intimidate the traders.
Traders Chukwudi Mbaebie, Patrick Okonkwo, Emeka Okposi, and Chukwukwado Emerebe supported the accusations, claiming that Mr. Enyeribe used security forces to intimidate fellow traders. Paul Agaba, Maduabuchi Odimegwu, Ebubechukwu Udegbunam, and Ugochukwu Ndubisi also called for the intervention of relevant stakeholders and the Anambra State Government.
In response to ABS News, Mr. Enyeribe, who also introduced himself as the Caretaker Committee Chairman, denied the allegations, stating that the accusations were fabricated by those desperate for power. He claimed that the state government had asked him to remain in office due to his positive contributions.
Despite their differences, both parties urged the government to address the erosion issue that has damaged shops in the market, which they believe will enable traders to generate more revenue for the state.
