Jubilation in Benin as Okpebholo Inspects Reconstructed Oba Market

By Ojo Evans 

Residents, traders, and shop owners at the newly reconstructed Oba Market in Benin City erupted in celebration on Friday as Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo led a high-powered delegation on an inspection tour of the facility. The governor’s unscheduled visit turned into a carnival of songs and cheers from market women who praised the completion of the project.

Okpebholo was accompanied by Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa, former Deputy Governors Pius Odubu and Lucky Imasuen, former Senator Matthew Urhoghide, Major General Charles Ehigie Airhiavbere, and Edo APC Secretary Lawrence Okah. Other party leaders from Edo South were also present for the tour of the market, which was gutted by fire several years ago.

Addressing traders, the governor thanked them for their patience and cooperation during the reconstruction process. He said their understanding allowed contractors to complete the work successfully and assured that shops would be allocated free of charge to genuine traders and previous occupants.

The governor revealed that traders yet to get spaces would be accommodated in the newly completed section of the market. He added that another government-owned building behind the market would be reconstructed to provide additional space. Those currently trading outside, he said, would be moved into the main market to trade in a safer environment protected from rain and harsh weather.

Okpebholo also gave assurances that all shop owners who occupied spaces before the fire incident would retain their shops once the market is fully completed. “We are committed to restoring the pride of Oba Market and improving the welfare of traders and business owners. Our administration will continue to work to make Edo people happy,” he said.

Former Deputy Governor Pius Odubu commended the quality of the reconstruction, describing it as world-class. “What we are seeing here today can compare favourably with modern markets in Dubai. Governor Okpebholo has done exceptionally well and Edo people are proud of this achievement,” he said.

Lucky Imasuen, another former Deputy Governor, said the project had restored life and dignity to the market environment. “Traders now have a more comfortable and secure environment to conduct their businesses. This development has brought back life to Oba Market,” he noted.

Former Senator Matthew Urhoghide also praised the intervention, saying the reconstruction had restored hope and economic confidence to traders and residents. “This market is now better than it was before the fire incident and Edo people are grateful to Governor Okpebholo for this remarkable intervention,” he stated.