30 January 2020
The Marian market (Ika-Ika Oqua market) was designed in 1987 to serve as a centre for buying and selling of food items and other consumables by residents in Calabar metropolis.
According to Hon. Efa Esua, the market was designed to have a police post, a car park, a health post, two canteens and a bank closer to it, including a creche were market women can drop their children and easily pick them after close of school
Also, the market was designed with a drive way to allow for fire services men or any rescue team to swiftly move into action in cases of fire outbreaks or emergencies.
Years after, all the spaces designed to complement the operations of the market have been taken over by containers and illegal structures within the market.
In view of the above, the Paramount Ruler of Calabar Municipality, Dr Oquagbor, flanked by the House of Assembly member representing Calabar Municipality, Hon. Efa Esua, Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Mfon Bassey, HOLGA of Calabar Municipality and Clan Heads in Calabar Municipality took an on the spot assessment to the market with the desire to return the Ika-Ika Oqua market to its original design.
While addressing the team before the assessment, the HOLGA, who organised the stakeholders' meeting, lamented that revenue generated from the market was shared by few individuals without a dime been remitted to local government coffers.
She lamented that the council was faced with several litigations arising from occupants of shops inside the market, whereas, no shop was under the control of the council.
Speaking, Hon. Esua expressed dissatisfaction that customers can no longer find spaces to park their vehicles, adding that the space earmarked for cars have all been taking over by containers.
On his part, the Commissioner assured that the right thing will be done to restore sanity within the market premises.
He explained that the state government was committed in ensuring a safe and clean environment for businesses to thrive, adding some structures erected within Calabar metropolis had defaced the beauty of the state.
The Paramount Ruler, who lamented the blocking of drainage system by some traders who have built structures on it, said the act will lead to flooding, thereby urging them to keep off the water channels.
-George's Print
