…Install 500KVA transformer

From Aloysius Attah, Onitsha

Leaders of Ogbogwu International Market Onitsha have restored power supply at the Bridge Head Medicine Market with the provision and installation of a brand-new 500 KVA electricity transformer within the market. 

The development hailed by traders in the popular market ended the total blackout experienced by the traders since February this year when public power supply was disrupted in the market.

 Chairman of the market, Ndubuisi Chukwuleta, who spoke yesterday, said the leadership took the decision to restore power supply in the market without waiting for the electricity distribution company because of the need to maintain the cool environment needed in the market to preserve some drugs that required storage at certain room temperature and refrigeration all geared towards improving business operations in the bustling commercial hub.

Chukwuleta reaffirmed his commitment to fighting the sale of fake drugs and promoting the welfare of genuine traders.

The new transformer was commissioned by the Special Adviser to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on Trade and Markets, Hon. Evarist Uba, during a brief ceremony that attracted top government officials, security operatives, and market stakeholders.

Cutting the ribbon, Hon. Uba commended the market leadership for its proactive efforts, urging traders to reciprocate by promptly paying their ₦19,500 annual stallage fees, which he said were modest compared to weekly levies paid by commercial tricycle operators in the state.

He reminded the traders that revenue generated from markets forms part of the funds used by the Soludo administration for infrastructural development across Anambra.

Uba also lauded the market chairman, Chief Chukwuleta, for his commitment to the progress of the market and transparent leadership, noting that Ogbogwu Market generated and remitted more revenue last year than the entire Bridge Head Market complex.

On the agitation for new market elections, Uba announced that all market polls had been suspended until after the November 8 governorship election, urging traders to remain patient and maintain peace.

 He further warned against the illegal act of breaking locks placed on shops by authorities due to non-payment of fees, stressing that such actions would attract severe sanctions.

Supporting the call for patience, Chairman of Onitsha South LGA, Hon. Orji, acknowledged existing leadership disputes in the market but urged traders to prioritize unity and development. He commended the installation of the transformer, describing electricity as “life to business and productivity.”