Gbagi Market Traders Demand Completion of Abandoned Shops

Market women at Gbagi Market in Ibadan, Oyo State, protested on Monday against the alleged abandonment of a shop reconstruction project for which they each paid N2m. The protestors called on Governor Seyi Makinde to intervene and ensure the contractor, Hamex Hamed Ebawa, completes the shops.

The project, initiated in 2025, has faced numerous issues, including the demolition of existing shops and the displacement of traders. Adegoke Funke, an 86-year-old trader, expressed frustration over the contractor's failure to return to the site.

Oladapo Eunice highlighted the struggles traders faced since the demolition on January 3, stating that many had taken loans to pay the N2m and were now being told that the funds were insufficient for the completed work. Balogun Abibat noted that the initial agreement for the replacement shops had changed multiple times, causing further distress among the traders.

They have been exposed to harsh weather conditions while waiting for the completion of their shops.