Tension looms as Dei Dei traders cry fowl over closure of market

Favour Ishember, Abuja

Following Wednesday night indefinite closure of Dei-Dei market by the FCT Minister, Mohammed Bello after the clash between commercial motorcyclists and the market traders left five people dead, a heavy cloud of tension has enveloped the market on Thursday.

While the traders held meetings in groups depending on the section of the market they belong to, some weapon wielding motorcyclists also assembled in their clusters watching the traders just as the heavy presence of armed security personnel provided the barrier needed to prevent another deadly clash.

The Market was a ghost of its former self with all shops closed while its road was devoid of the usual hassle and bustle it was known for.

The traders however did not hold back their frustration as they vehemently protested the closure of the market where they earn their means of livelihood while the okada riders, who were also involved in the Wednesday skirmish, were allowed to go about their business activities.

Speaking with our correspondent John Emmanuel, the Vice chairman of the Dei-Dei International building materials market, Celestine Ekebo who also expressed concerns over the development, noted that the administration’s decision was in the best interest of the territory and its residents.

He called on both the affected and non affected members of the market to Cooperate with the administration until when the necessary investigations are carried out.

He added that the administration, through the Abuja Market Management Ltd had asked the traders to evaluate the properties destroyed and present it to the administration for possible compensation.

Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Fom Pam who was personally on ground to ensure the situation does not escalate, told out correspondent that the Police in collaboration with sister agencies have initiated strategies that will ensure normalcy was restored to the area.