By Karen James
In a remarkable show of solidarity, Chief Ndubuisi Ochiogu (Eze Udo/001), President-General of Ogbaru Main Market (Relief), mobilized the largest contingent of traders to welcome the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, CFR, at the Chuba Ikpeazu Sports Stadium, Onitsha North, during the “A Day Celebration with Anambra State Traders” organized by the Anambra State Market Amalgamated Traders Association (ASMATA).
The event, held in appreciation of Governor Soludo’s transformative works across the state, witnessed an unprecedented turnout of traders, party stakeholders, and community leaders. Chief Ochiogu’s mobilization efforts brought together the Ogbaru Local Government Chairman, Hon. Sir Kenneth Akwuobi, APGA party executives, stakeholders, youth groups, and numerous support organizations to show their collective appreciation and endorsement of the governor.
Speaking at the rally, Chief Humphrey Anuna (Ajilija Onwa Ora Nine) assured Governor Soludo of overwhelming trader support in the upcoming November 8 gubernatorial election. He praised the governor’s strides in infrastructural development, market reforms, and trader-friendly policies.
In a symbolic gesture, ASMATA presented a cheque of ₦10 million to the governor as a demonstration of their commitment to his re-election bid.
Responding, Governor Soludo expressed gratitude for the solidarity shown by Anambra traders and pledged to continue promoting peace, orderliness, and a conducive business environment across the markets. He firmly condemned illegal extortion of petty traders, barrow pushers, and hawkers by unauthorized groups, promising to strengthen security measures to safeguard commerce in the state.
“My administration remains committed to supporting ASMATA and every trader in Anambra. We will not tolerate illegal levies or harassment. Every hardworking trader deserves a free and fair trading ground,” Governor Soludo assured.
The event not only showcased the traders’ appreciation of Soludo’s governance but also solidified the role of ASMATA and Ogbaru traders as a powerful political and economic bloc in the state.
