The Ebonyi State Government has stepped in to resolve a brewing crisis in Integrated Building Materials Market, Abakaliki, dissolving a controversial revenue subcommittee and inaugurating a new structure aimed at restoring transparency, accountability, and peace.
The intervention was led by the Commissioner for Market Development and Parks, Professor Nwogo Ajiuka Obasi, following complaints from traders and market stakeholders over alleged irregularities in revenue collection and management.
Addressing journalists after a mediation meeting with stakeholders, the Commissioner explained that the crisis stemmed from disagreements over the payment of a N30,000 levy and dissatisfaction with the conduct of a revenue committee set up by the market leadership.
According to him, the committee had been accused of high-handedness and operating outside agreed procedures, prompting protests from aggrieved traders.
“After a series of engagements with the executives and various groups within the market, it became clear that the revenue subcommittee was not functioning in line with established guidelines. In response, we have dissolved that committee and put in place a more structured and accountable system," he said.
He noted that a new committee has been constituted to oversee revenue collection and auditing processes, with a mandate to ensure transparency and proper documentation of market funds.
The Commissioner expressed optimism that the government’s intervention would bring lasting peace to the market, noting that initial reactions from stakeholders had been positive.
“From what we have seen today, the traders are satisfied with the steps taken. We believe this will usher in genuine peace and improved administration,” he added.
Leaders of the market associations also welcomed the move, pledging their support for government efforts to stabilize operations and prevent future conflicts.
Chief Fidelis Onwe, President of the Integrated Building Materials Market and a member of the Ebonyi State Growth and Advisory Board, commended the Commissioner’s timely intervention, emphasizing the importance of peace in sustaining business activities.
“Even before my emergence as president, my priority has always been peace. With this intervention, we are confident that stability will be maintained across the market," he said.
He further lauded the state government for fostering a secure and business-friendly environment, noting that markets across the 13 local government areas of the state have remained largely peaceful.
In a related development, market leaders used the occasion to reaffirm their support for the state governor, citing improved security, economic support initiatives, and overall market stability as reasons for their endorsement.
They announced plans to hold a rally on April 28, 2026 to demonstrate their backing and appreciation for the administration’s efforts.
Other stakeholders, including leaders of trade associations, Chairman , Association of Tiles Dealers in the Market, Chief Augustine Eneh, Prince Igwe Agwu, among others, also expressed cautious optimism, urging continued dialogue and adherence to due process in market administration.
They said the crisis, which had threatened to disrupt commercial activities, now appears to be easing as the newly constituted committee begins work under government supervision.
They maintained that the success of the intervention will depend largely on sustained transparency and cooperation between market leaders and traders.
