Ozomagana Market Criss: Fresh Facts Debunk Claims Of Unlawful Detention

Ozomagana Market Crisis: Fresh Facts Debunk Claims of Unlawful Detention

Contrary to recent media reports alleging unlawful detention of the former chairman of Ozomagana building materials Market, Onitsha, fresh findings have emerged indicating that the narrative being circulated is misleading and fails to present the full circumstances surrounding the matter.

A section of traders operating under the banner of an Elders’ Forum had earlier accused the Nigeria Police Force Special Investigation Unit (SIU), Abuja, of unlawfully detaining Mr. Obiora Okoro and called for the intervention of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.

However, independent checks within the market community confirm that Mr. Okolo is no longer in detention, contrary to claims published by certain media outlets.

 Sources disclosed that he was granted bail but was unable to meet the stipulated bail conditions at the time. Stakeholders have therefore questioned the credibility and thoroughness of reports suggesting he remains illegally detained.

Further investigations reveal that the controversy surrounding Mr. Okolo extends beyond mere leadership disputes.

 Credible sources within the market disclosed that he and his executive members had earlier been formally dissolved following unresolved administrative and governance concerns within the market union.

Subsequently, the Anambra State Government approved the inauguration of a caretaker committee to restore order and ensure proper coordination of market affairs, with Mr. Tochukwu Umeh appointed as chairman.

Despite the dissolution, Mr. Okolo allegedly continued to parade himself as chairman, creating tension and division within the market community.

The crisis reportedly escalated when he allegedly supervised demolition of certain structures within the market without the consent of the duly inaugurated caretaker committee or the recognized landowners, the Modebe family. 

During the demolition exercise, traders reportedly suffered losses as goods were said to have been destroyed.

More troubling allegations have also surfaced.

 Sources within the market community alleged that Mr. Okolo is facing serious accusations, including fraudulent activities and the alleged forgery of the signature of a deceased individual in matters relating to market documentation.

 It was gathered that these allegations formed part of the petitions that prompted law enforcement intervention.

A senior stakeholder in the market, who preferred anonymity, stated

“The issue is not about rewriting any agreement as claimed in some reports. The former chairman had already been dissolved along with his executives.

 Government inaugurated a caretaker committee to restore order. He refused to comply and went ahead with demolition activities without approval. 

There are also weighty allegations against him that cannot simply be ignored. Law enforcement was invited based on petitions, not for intimidation.”

Stakeholders further criticized sections of the media for what they described as publishing a one-sided narrative without adequate verification.

“It is unfortunate that some outlets rushed to press without confirming whether he was still in detention or understanding the nature of the allegations. The public deserves balanced reporting, not sympathy-driven headlines,” another trader remarked.

Observers note that the dispute underscores the importance of respecting constituted authorities within market unions, adhering to due process, and allowing investigative agencies to carry out their responsibilities without undue sensationalism.

As the matter continues to unfold, stakeholders have called for calm, urging traders and members of the public to allow lawful processes to take their course in the interest of stability, justice, and sustained commercial activities in Ozomagana Market, Onitsha.