Nsukka Local Government Chairman, Engr. Jude Chinedu Asogwa, KSJI, has restated his administration’s commitment to easing the plight of traders displaced from the Ogige Market during the recent restructuring of trading activities in the area.

On Monday, August 25, 2025, Asogwa led a delegation of council officials to the Nsukka Central Bus Terminal, where displaced hawkers and kiosk owners now operate in makeshift stalls along the roadside. The visit followed several appeals by the affected traders, who complained of the hardship and loss of income since their eviction from Ogige Market.

During the interaction, the chairman reassured the traders that the council was determined to provide a lasting solution. He explained that the construction of the Nsukka International Market was not only part of efforts to modernize trade in the local government but also a deliberate plan to resettle those who lost their shops in Ogige.

“We are aware of your struggle since the relocation.My administration is committed to ensuring that no genuine trader is left stranded.That is why we directed you to submit your names and the allocation papers at the Nsukka International Market market site for proper identification and settlement,”Asogwa said.

The council had earlier issued directives for all affected traders to provide their allocation documents in order to facilitate transparent and fair distribution of available shops at the new facility. According to the chairman, this process will help eliminate double allocations and ensure that only verified Ogige traders benefit from the resettlement programme.

Traders who spoke during the visit expressed relief at the council chairman’s intervention. A kiosk owner, Mrs. Chinyere Okafor, said the personal visit gave them hope that the government was responsive to their plight. “We were beginning to lose faith, but seeing the chairman here today and listening to him directly has encouraged us,” she remarked.

Another trader, Mr. Emmanuel Eze, appealed to the council to expedite the resettlement process. “Many of us have families depending on these small businesses. The sooner we are settled, the better for us,” he said.

Engr. Asogwa assured them that the resettlement would be handled with fairness and speed, stressing that the Nsukka International Market was designed to become a hub for modern commerce in the area.

The visit ended on a positive note, with the traders applauding the chairman’s leadership style and expressing optimism that the new market would restore their livelihoods and dignit