The Oredo Local Government Council has commenced a structured verification exercise to identify rightful owners of shops at the newly constructed Oba Market in Benin City.
The exercise is being carried out by a committee chaired by Hon. Ebegue Igho-Osagie, following directives from Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, to ensure that shops are returned to original owners affected by the 2020 fire incident.
According to the committee, the verification process is based on data provided by the Oredo Revenue Department and shop owners. This includes records of original ownership, dates of allotment, and payment receipts. Traders are also undergoing detailed screening to confirm their claims.
Speaking on the exercise, Hon. Igho-Osagie said the process is aimed at restoring fairness and order in the market. He warned traders against illegal sales or transfers of allocated shops, noting that such actions could lead to revocation of ownership.
The verification follows recent protests by traders over alleged irregularities in shop allocation. In response, the Chairman of Oredo Local Government Council, Hon. Engr. Gabriel Iduseri, intervened to restore calm and reaffirm the governmentās commitment to transparency, fairness, and justice.
The committee is expected to conclude its assignment by the end of May. Meanwhile, traders have been urged to cooperate fully with the process, with assurances that the council will maintain a free, fair, and transparent exercise.
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