Business owners at Challenge Market in Ilorin, Kwara State, have staged a protest against the construction of a fence by the state government, which they claim is negatively impacting their businesses and livelihoods.
Challenge Market is a bustling hub known for electronic gadgets, including phones, laptops, and spare parts. It also serves as a training ground for youth learning to repair these devices, contributing significantly to the local economy and offering self-employment opportunities to thousands of residents.
Speaking to Chronicles Reporters on Tuesday, the market chairman, Mallam Garba Ibrahim, highlighted the detrimental effects of the fence on both safety and economic activities.
“This market is a major revenue source for the state and a livelihood center for many youths. The fence has limited access to the market, reducing customer turnout. We need multiple entrances to sustain businesses and ensure safety during emergencies,” he explained.
He expressed fears of potential stampedes, referencing incidents across the country where limited exits during emergencies led to tragic outcomes.
“With only one road now, God forbid there’s an emergency — it could result in a loss of lives,” he warned.
Mallam Garba emphasized the economic significance of Challenge Market. “This is a place of self-employment where people support one another. If this market experiences setbacks, the state’s economy will feel the ripple effects.”
He clarified that their protest was not aimed at destroying government efforts. “We are law-abiding citizens engaging in legitimate businesses. We only seek the governor’s intervention as our leader, mentor, and father figure,” he added.
The traders are specifically requesting additional entrances to enhance patronage and ensure public safety.
“Our primary demand is for more access points. In case of emergencies, how can rescue teams reach us? We plead with Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to address this pressing issue,” he said.
According to him, the market currently has 30 to 40 complexes. “If the government provides us with 10 additional entrances, it will be sufficient. We have always supported the governor, and we hope he will support us now,” he noted.
He also highlighted the broader economic impact of the market. “Challenge Market is a vital hub for youths from all 16 local government areas of Kwara State. Each youth here supports an entire family. For every 1,000 youths working here, at least 10,000 individuals benefit indirectly.”
Mallam Garba pointed out that the market is central to the state’s revenue generation. “The revenue department is aware of the monthly contributions from Challenge Market. We play a crucial role in stabilizing Kwara’s economy,” he stated.
He reiterated that additional entrances are not only essential for economic growth but also for public safety.
“God forbid there’s an unusual incident here. Without extra entrances, rescue teams would struggle to reach us. We need better access to sustain livelihoods and prevent potential tragedies,” he concluded.
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