Traders’ Protest Claim One Life, Injure Many

Early Wednesday morning protest by some traders at the Ogbete Main Market, Enugu, claimed the life of one trader, leaving many others seriously wounded.
The Tide gathered that the aggrieved traders who were protesting against the sealing of their shops by the Enugu State Government over non – compliance of its ban on Monday sit-at-home, gathered as early as 8am in front of the market and started matching along the road to register their sadness.
This, therefore, attracted the attention of many people, including motorists and passers-by, some of who instantly contacted the police.
The Police shortly on arrival, alongside other Security Operatives unfortunately had serious confrontation with the protesters.
It was further gathered that the confrontation that ensued led to strayed bullet hitting one of the traders who died on the spot before medical attention could get to him.
Meanwhile, a Public Service Announcement, Wednesday, signed by Secretary to the State Government, Prof Chidiebere Onyia, read: “The Enugu State Government received with grave concern the ugly incident at Ogbete Main Market, Enugu, today.
“Information available to Government shows that traders whose shops were sealed for non-compliance with Government’s order banning Monday sit-at-home, defied the instruction on how the shops should be re-opened and resorted to self-help by removing the seals. This led to internal squabbles between the market leadership and some of the affected traders.
“The ensuing confrontation resulted in a protest, which was infiltrated and hijacked by dangerously armed hoodlums and miscreants, who broke shops and looted traders’ wares.
“Attempt by security operatives to restore order and prevent further looting was violently resisted by the imported and armed hoodlums. Government is receiving further briefings on the development.
“In the meantime, investigation to unravel the circumstance surrounding the incident, including the reports of casualty, is already ongoing.
“Government calls on the people and residents of Enugu to remain calm and go about their lawful businesses, as adequate security measures are in place to secure lives and property in the State”.

By: Canice Amadi, Enugu