Enugu State government has expressed concern over the ugly incident at Ogbete Main Market in Enugu where traders were attacked and shops bungled by hoodlums.
The miscreants also attacked government officials who sealed shops that violated Governor Peter Mbah directive for residents not to adhere to the sit-at-home order by the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
In a statement issued by secretary to the state government Chidiebere Onyia, the government said the traders whose shops were sealed for non-compliance with the order banning the Monday sit-at-home order of IPOB, defied the instruction of government and failed to re-open their shop, instead, resorted to self-help by removing the seals.
This, according to him, led to internal squabbles between the market leadership and some of the affected traders.
He said, “The ensuing confrontation resulted in a protest, which was infiltrated and hijacked by armed hoodlums and miscreants, who broke shops and looted traders’ wares.”
“Attempt by security operatives to restore order and prevent further looting was violently resisted by the imported and armed hoodlums. Government is receiving further briefings on the development.
“In the meantime, investigation to unravel the circumstance surrounding the incident, including the reports of casualty, is already ongoing.
“Government calls on the people and residents of Enugu to remain calm and go about their lawful businesses, as adequate security measures are in place to secure life and property in the state,” he said.
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