The Oyo State Government has dismissed reports suggesting that the Bola Ige International Business Complex, Gbagi, Ibadan, would be closed on Monday, describing the speculation as unfounded and misleading.
This clarification was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by the Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives, and Industry, Adeniyi Adebisi, in Ibadan.
Adebisi assured traders, shop owners, and members of the public that the government had no plans to shut down the popular Gbagi market, noting that the rumour was a deliberate attempt by mischief-makers to cause tension within the business community.
“The Bola Ige International Business Complex remains a hub of commercial activities in the state, and at no point did the government contemplate shutting it down. We urge traders and the public to disregard this misleading information being spread by unscrupulous elements whose aim is to disrupt peace and normal business operations. Normal activities will continue without any hindrance on Monday and beyond,” he stated.
The commissioner further noted that government was aware of some practices within the complex where certain shop owners, mostly elders, allegedly allocate the spaces in front of their shops to petty traders, sometimes measuring the portions with rulers and exploiting them financially.
He explained that steps were already being taken to address the excesses in a fair and balanced manner to protect the interests of all categories of traders and ensure that the business complex m conducive for legitimate commercial activities.
Adebisi added that the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde remained committed to creating an enabling environment for trade and would not take any decision capable of crippling business operations in the state.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Olajide Okesade, reaffirmed the government’s position and stressed that adequate security measures had been put in place to maintain peace and order within the complex.
“The ministry wishes to assure all traders, customers, and stakeholders that there will be no closure of the Bola Ige International Business Complex on Monday.
“The rumour is unfounded, and everyone should go about their normal business without fear. The government remains committed to protecting the interests of traders and ensuring the smooth running of all markets and business complexes across the state,” he said.
