Imo traders under the platform of Imo State Amalgamated Markets and Allied Traders Association, ISAMATA, have applauded Imo State government led by Governor Hope Uzodimma for proffering solutions to the long tumults and confusions witnessed at various markets in the state.
The association hailed Uzodimma for bringing fresh hope to markets in the state, adding that traders and marketers in Imo are now enjoying peace at the markets.
ISAMATA State Secretary, Sir Don Chris Okere, noted that peace and joy have returned to all the markets as issues related to leadership positions and other rancors have been resolved.
Okere who briefed journalists on behalf of the State President of the association, Mr Emmanuel Ezeanochie, during the State Executive Meeting of ISAMATA, on Wednesday, thanked Uzodimma for allowing Market Revenue Collection for the first time to come from market leaders and no longer from touts or unauthorized revenue officers.
Okere informed that markets levy has now been brought to smallest amount which would no more be difficult for traders to comply with, adding that since the inception of the current ISAMATA executives, the leaders of over 58 markets in the state have been inaugurated.
The Secretary disclosed that Egbeada International Market has kicked off trading with the state government letting shops free for 6months to traders and marketers, urging traders who are still involving in street trading to move to designated markets for their own good.
While appreciating the role of the Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Hon. Simon Ebegbulam to the association, Okere availed that the group has solid relationship with the state government and has been receiving maximum support from them as it concerns market activities.
Also speaking, the State Coordinator of Hausa Traders/Marketers in ISAMATA, Ibrahim Dangali, described the people of Imo State as peaceful, promising to use his office to coordinate all Hausa traders in the state, to be law abiding and corporate with policies of the government especially ones relating to markets.
Others who added their voices were Mr David Okoko, Owerri Zonal President of the group, Mr Udoka Mgbemere, Orlu Zonal President, Pastor Chinwendu Ezeigwe, Okigwe Zonal President, and Mr Ogbonna Onyejiuwa, Assistant Secretary of ISAMATA.
They thanked the governor for paying attention to needs of market traders, saying he is a man who is capable of working out the salvation of marketers in Imo.
