By Princewill Mbonu| The Chambers News
The Chairman, Caretaker Committee, Ozomagana Building Materials Market, Onitsha South Local Government Area, Tochukwu Umeh, has refuted certain media reports alleging the reinstatement of the dissolved executive body of the market.
Describing the reports as false, misleading and capable of inciting confusion, the chairman affirmed that the current caretaker committee remains the only legitimate leadership structure recognized by the Anambra State Government.
According to the chairman, the report circulating in some quarters suggesting that Chief Obiora Okoro and his former executive have been reinstated by the Mayor of Onitsha South Local Government is not only incorrect but a deliberate attempt to undermine the authority of the State Government and disrupt the peace and order currently being enjoyed in the market.
“The facts are clear and on record; the former executive were removed following several petitions, allegations of financial misappropriation and gross abuse of office.
“After a detailed investigation carried out by the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Trade and Markets, Chief Evarist Uba in collaboration with other relevant bodies, the State Government in March 2025, duly inaugurated a caretaker committee led by Mr. Tochukwu Umeh on an interim basis.
“It is important to note that the March 2025 inauguration of the caretaker committee was initially on an interim basis, pending further assessments.
“Following a successful performance review and consultation with relevant stakeholders, the State Government, in May 2025 confirmed the committee led by Mr. Tochukwu Umeh as the substantive caretaker leadership of the market”
Reacting to claims that the Mayor of Onitsha South had reinstated the former chairman, the chairman clarified that market leadership structures are under the supervision of the State Government, particularly through the Office of the Special Adviser on Trade and Markets, and that the Mayor was fully briefed on the process that led to the caretaker committee’s inauguration.
“While local governments play supportive roles in market regulation, leadership changes and administrative oversight remain the exclusive function of the state through the designated office.
“Any claims of reinstatement not rooted in this process are unauthorized and cannot stand.”
The chairman expressed concern that certain individuals are bent on creating unnecessary tension within the market by spreading unfounded narratives. He warned that such actions would not be tolerated.
“The government has zero tolerance for acts capable of destabilizing our markets. Those peddling misinformation or parading themselves under non-existent mandates will be held accountable.”
He disclosed that the current caretaker committee, which is working closely with the Modebe family, who are landlords of the plaza, are continuing renovation efforts aimed at modernizing the market while protecting the interests of genuine traders.
“The present leadership has ensured fairness, resisted arbitrary shop rent increases, and upheld transparency in market dealings. That is why the State Government is standing firmly behind the committee,” he said.
“Traders and stakeholders in Ozomagala Market are advised to disregard false claims and continue cooperating with the legally constituted market leadership as appointed by the state and we urge the public and our traders to remain law-abiding and focused on the development.
“No amount of misinformation will derail the reforms being implemented to ensure that Anambra markets operate with integrity, structure, and accountability,” the chairman concluded.