The Imo State Commissioner for Trade, Commerce and Investment Hon. Barr. Rex Anunobi has called on traders at the Imo Modern Cluster International Market, Naze, in Owerri North Local Government Area, to embrace peace, support government efforts, and comply with all market regulations.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting with traders at the market, the Commissioner urged all traders to pay their stallage fees into the Treasury Single Account (TSA), noting that outstanding payments dating back to 2020 should be settled promptly.
He advised traders to shun violence and channel all grievances through written submissions to the Ministry, assuring them that every genuine complaint would receive adequate attention.
The Commissioner also appealed to traders to cooperate with the Interim Management Committee appointed by the Imo State Government through the Ministry of Trade, Commerce and Investment and headed by Mr. Uchenna Anaegbu.
Emphasizing the need for peace, cleanliness, and adequate security within the market, the Commissioner reminded traders that the market was built and funded by the Imo State Government and remains a state-owned facility. He warned individuals causing unrest in the market to desist immediately or face appropriate sanctions from the government.
The Commissioner further assured traders of the government’s commitment to improving road infrastructure and electricity supply around the market to create a more conducive business environment.
He encouraged all traders to embrace peace and unity in order to boost commercial activities and attract more investment to the market.
On shop allocations, the Commissioner cautioned traders against engaging in allocation racketeering, stressing that the Ministry had not officially allocated any shops in the market.
He advised anyone claiming to have been allocated a shop to report to the Ministry for proper clarification.
