Contrary to the claim by Oyo State Government in its press statement signed by Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperative and Industry, Adeniyi Adebisi to debunk the publication of local news outlets who had reported the development taking place at the popular Gbagi International Market, that available car parks in the market have been converted to high pricey shops; a report by Punch newspaper has vindicated the state’s local news outlets.
Punch in its investigative report and on-site assessment of the condition of the market reported the challenges traders at the market who were enjoying low-cost stalls are passing through following the modernisation of the market embarked upon by the Oyo State Government. In the exclusive report published by Punch newspaper, the available space at Rounda and Ita Wewe previously used for car parks are no longer visible as high pricey shops become the stunning structure with less priority for anyone bringing a car to the market.
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Modernisation of the market should incorporate a more secure environment, ease of doing business through revolving soft loan with no interest, improved infrastructure that will caution emergency like fire disaster to mitigate loss of traders when such arise. Better conveniences, adequate lighting, CCTV installation among others.
Although, the commissioner claimed that no part of the main designated car park has been taken over or eliminated. Adebisi reacted further that no new shops are situated in the core vehicle parking zone.
Toun Adewuyi, a trader who spoke with Punch correspondent said that a small section where customers park has been allocated for shops. She said they have been directed to park outside the market.
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A long-time stakeholder of the market, Mr. Adeoti who spoke with Punch says a market without car parks is like a house without doors. He says the action of the government endangers everyone.
Adeoti said the new construction has not factored in market accidents that may require emergency response.
“Emergency access is now nearly impossible. With car parks gone and internal spaces constricted, fire trucks or ambulances would struggle to reach inner sections of the market in the event of a fire or stampede”, Adeoti submitted.
