By Precious Owolabi, Ado-Ekiti

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji has issued a two-week ultimatum to traders operating along major roadsides in Ado-Ekiti, including Bisi Market and Kings Market, to vacate these unauthorised trading spots and relocate to the newly completed ultra-modern Agric Olope Market.

The governor gave the directive on Thursday during a stakeholders’ meeting with market women held at the palace of the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti. He emphasised that traders who fail to comply with the relocation order on or before June 23 would face the full weight of the law.

Oyebanji while addressing the traders, stated that the directive was part of efforts to restore order and ensure the safety and health of residents in the state capital, noting that roadside trading poses significant risks.

He reiterated the importance of Ado-Ekiti as a strategic economic hub, adding that the newly commissioned Agric Olope Market is fully equipped with state-of-the-art facilities designed to provide a safe and convenient trading environment.

According to the governor, the market features modern amenities such as water supply, modern toilet facilities, well-laid road networks, warehouses, solar-powered lighting for night trading, and security infrastructure.

He described the development as a demonstration of his administration’s commitment to building a vibrant and modern commercial space for the people.

While commending the traders for their cooperation and willingness to relocate, the Governor assured them that the government’s intention was not to victimise anyone but to prioritise public interest.

“Today’s meeting is a consultation, not a confrontation. We’ve built a market based on the specifications given by the traders. We consulted them, and they told us what they wanted. We’ve provided water, toilets, parking spaces, security, and more to make trading comfortable for them.

“We don’t want to use force. Democracy is about dialogue, not compulsion. I have spoken with Kabiyesi and the Ewi-in-Council, and we’ve agreed to engage the traders respectfully. I’m happy a consensus has been reached. They have promised to commence relocation by mid-month,” he said.

Oyebanji, however, warned that the government would not hesitate to take action against any trader who violates the agreement.

“I don’t expect any defaulters, but if there are, the law will take its course. Street trading is unsafe, unhealthy, and economically unviable. We must enforce this agreement,” he stated.

Earlier in her remarks, the Commissioner for Trade, Industry, Investment and Cooperatives, Mrs. Tayo Adeola, lauded the Governor’s developmental strides, describing the newly built market as a landmark achievement in improving the welfare of traders and enhancing the commercial outlook of the capital city.

She urged traders to begin the process of securing spaces in the new market by obtaining allocation forms starting from Tuesday next week. She further assured them that the allocation process would be fair and transparent.

“We want every trader to seize this opportunity for a smooth transition. The government is fully committed to making the process seamless and equitable for all,” she said.

The Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe, in his contribution, expressed satisfaction with the state government’s vision of urban transformation. He commended the Governor for bringing to fruition the long-standing efforts to modernise Ado-Ekiti and urged the traders to embrace the new development.

“The market is well-equipped and conducive. This aligns with our collective dream of a better Ado-Ekiti. I enjoin all our traders to support this move and comply with the directive,” the monarch appealed.

Present at the meeting were the Chief of Staff, Mr. Niyi Adebayo; Commissioner for Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Prof. Mobolaji Aluko; Commissioner for Transport, Mr. Ajobiewe Kehinde; Special Adviser on Security, Brig. Gen. Ebenezer Ogundana (rtd); Chairmen of Ado Local Government and Local Council Development Areas; members of the Ewi-in-Council, and market leaders, among others.