Ereko textile market elects new executive

By Merit Ibe 

The Ereko Market Traders Association (EMTA) on the Lagos Island recently conducted a free and fair election which led to the emergence of Benjamin Ndubuisi Nweke (Benduco) as the new president elect. 

Nweke polled 169 against 155 by his rival, Simon Ezeobiakor, the incumbent chairman of the union.

Traders from neighbouring markets in Idumota were shocked over the closure of the popular Ereko Textiles Market, despite the ongoing Yuletide shopping season on the election day. Trading activities could not resume until 3pm, due to the election  to vote in new leaders who will manage the market in the next two years. The EMTA executives directed every shop to remain closed pending the conclusion of polls.

Sampson Madu, the chairman of EMTA electoral committee, said “our original plan was that voting will start 8a.m to 10a.m, while counting will take us to 12noon at worst, but due to unforseen circumstances the schedule chnaged.

This election is very important to us, so we are sacrificed everything. You know quite well that this is our own trading season, but we closed shop and abandoned our businesses. Secondly, we have to ensure that every registered voter who comes to this venue must cast his or her vote. My joy now is that everything has been very smooth and transparent.”

Ereko is one of the biggest and most populous textile markets in Africa. The traders are mostly Igbo and Yoruba, who specialise in import, export, wholesale and general distribution of all kinds of textile and fabric materials such as cord lace; cashmere and senator materials; georges; bridal satin; sequence and beaded materials; Indian lace; nets; sample lace; pigal; canal; chinos; school uniform materials; shirts and trouser materials among others.

“The need therefore, for an honest, peace loving and detribalised leadership cannot be over emphasised.”

“Nweke is well respected, trusted and celebrated by the other tribes in the market for his honesty, dedication and transparency. He is also regarded as a symbol of unity in the market.” 

Other successful candidates were Akinyemi Bilikisu, who emerged as vice chairman; Aransiola Damilola, secretary general; Amamife Peter, treasurer and Eze Samuel, financial secretary. 

Damilola, the new scribe of the union, having served as former assistant secretary, assured every EMTA member of better days ahead.