New Leadership Signals End to Intimidation at Lokoja International Market
By THEANALYSTMEDIA
A fresh wave of hope and confidence has emerged among traders at the Lokoja International Market following the successful inauguration of a new market executive, amid strong assurances from traditional authorities, government representatives and traders that intimidation, extortion and arbitrary actions witnessed in the past will no longer be tolerated.
At the well-attended ceremony, the Sarkin Fawa of Lokoja, who gave a brief historical account of the market, commended Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, for fostering an environment of peace and lawful governance.
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He assured traders that the era of harassment and intimidation that allegedly characterised the previous executive had come to an end.
“As an advisory ruler, I will continue to protect the interest of traders,” the Sarkin Fawa said. “The days of intimidating traders, as experienced during the previous administration, are over.”
Observers believe the statement was a direct reaction to recent attempts to disrupt the inauguration of the newly elected executives. According to the former secretary of the traders’ association, Idi Ibrahim, the comments were a clear warning to individuals with what he described as “dictatorial tendencies.”
“What the Sarkin Fawa said is a clear indication that anyone trying to muscle traders out of their rights to their wares will be resisted legally,” Ibrahim said.
In the same vein, THEANALYSTMEDIA reports that efforts to stop the inauguration by Adams Babangida, allegedly in collaboration with Sarkin Kasuwa, Alhaji Bawa, were unsuccessful, as traders and relevant stakeholders stood firmly by the outcome of the election and the rule of law.
The outgoing President-General of the Igbo Community in Lokoja, Chief Solomon Wachukwu, also condemned the alleged attempt to stop the inauguration, stressing that traders have the constitutional right to manage their properties and businesses.
“Traders have the right to decide what to do with their properties because we are generating revenue to the government,” Chief Wachukwu said. He frowned at what he described as unacceptable efforts by some groups to stop the inauguration of duly elected leaders.
Several traders used the occasion to recount years of hardship under previous administrations. Mrs Rebecca, a trader at the market, alleged persistent extortion and illegal sale of shops.
“We have suffered extortion and sales of shops in Lokoja International Market,” she said. “With the new leadership, we are confident they will be alert and protect our interests.”
Earlier, in his inaugural address, the newly elected Chairman of the market association, Alhaji Hassan Inuwa, thanked traders for the confidence reposed in him and his team, describing the electoral process as peaceful and transparent.
“This mandate belongs to every trader in this market, and we accept it with humility and a deep sense of responsibility,” Inuwa said.
He pledged to lead with integrity, transparency and fairness, calling on traders to embrace unity for the collective progress of the market.
“Let me clearly state that it will not be business as usual,” he warned. “My team and I will resist any attempt to oppress traders in this market. We are determined to fight corruption in all its forms. Any illegal extortion, unauthorized sale of shops or misuse of government properties will be reported to the appropriate authorities without fear or favour.”
The chairman added that his administration would prioritise peace, order and the welfare of traders, while strengthening collaboration with government agencies and security operatives to ensure a safe and conducive business environment.
“I assure you that your voices will be heard, your businesses protected and your interests defended. With your support and prayers, we will move Lokoja International Market to greater heights,” he said.
The Maigari of Lokoja, His Royal Highness Alhaji Ibrahim Gambo Kabir Maikarfi IV, represented by the Hakimi of Ward D, Isah Baba Nasidi, pledged royal support for the new leadership.
“His Royal Highness, who was unavoidably absent, asked me to tell you that he is 100 per cent with you. Be fair to your members,” Nasidi conveyed.
Similarly, the Chairman of Lokoja Local Government Council, Comrade Abdullahi Adamu, represented by his Special Adviser on Security, Hon. Muhammad Yusuf, assured traders of the council’s commitment to protecting lives and properties.
“Be reassured that the council will do everything within its power to protect you and your properties,” Yusuf said, while commending traders for ensuring a peaceful transition.
As the event concluded, traders expressed optimism that the new leadership would usher in an era of accountability, unity and stability, restoring confidence in Lokoja International Market as one of Kogi State’s major commercial centres.
(Democracy Newsline Newspaper, December 14th 2025)
