The President of the Ebonyi State Integrated Building Materials Market, Chief Fidelis Onyibe Onwe, has warned critics of his leadership to desist from actions capable of disrupting peace in the market, insisting that there is no crisis under his administration.
Reacting to recent petitions and protests by some traders, particularly from the tiles section, Onwe accused certain individuals with links to the corridors of power of attempting to incite unrest and make the market ungovernable.
He maintained that despite the alleged attempts to destabilize the market, his leadership remains committed to sustaining peace, unity, and development across all sections.
“There is no war in the building materials market. We are operating in peace, except for a few elements trying to tarnish my image and create unnecessary tension,” Onwe said.
The market leader also used the opportunity to declare total support for Governor Francis Nwifuru’s re-election bid in 2027, revealing plans by traders to organize a mega rally in endorsement of the governor.
According to him, the traders are satisfied with the governor’s performance, citing infrastructural development, human capital empowerment, and people-oriented policies as reasons for their continued support.
“The entire integrated building materials market will vote massively for Governor Nwifuru in 2027. He has done well and deserves a second term. We are already planning a mega rally to demonstrate our support,” he stated.
Onwe further highlighted efforts made by his administration to transform the market, which he described as previously swampy, inaccessible, and unfit for business activities.
He explained that upon assuming office over two years ago, he invested personal resources and secured support from associates to rehabilitate the market, including grading the land, constructing culverts, sand-filling affected areas, and installing streetlights.
“When we came on board, the place was not habitable. It looked like an abandoned site. Today, the market is motorable and more organized due to the interventions we initiated,” he said.
He added that no compulsory levies had been imposed on traders under his leadership, except for a one-time contribution agreed upon collectively for specific developmental projects.
The president disclosed that ongoing projects in the market include the construction of perimeter fencing, modern toilet facilities, and other infrastructure aimed at attracting investors and improving security.
Onwe urged aggrieved traders, particularly those in the tiles section, to embrace dialogue and avoid actions that could disrupt the peace currently enjoyed in the market.
“I respect everyone, and I am open to engagement. But those trying to incite others against the leadership should reconsider. Our focus is development and unity,” he added.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transforming the Integrated Building Materials Market into a modern commercial hub that will benefit traders and boost economic activities in Ebonyi State.
