Makinde Reopens Shasha Market,Victims to Get Palliatives

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State yesterday ordered the reopening of the Shasha market, a decision, he said, was taken in the best interest of the traders and for peace and harmony between the Yoruba and Hausa communities.

The market was shut down barely two weeks ago after the bloody clash that ensued following the death of a cobbler.

Makinde gave the directive for the reopening of the market yesterday during a peace meeting held with the leaders of the Hausa and Yoruba communities of Shasha at the House of Chiefs, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan.

He said the decision to reopen the market was informed by the need for survival for the traders in the light of the declining economic situation.

He added that due to the economic situation and the peculiarities associated with the state, the reopening of the market became imperative.

While addressing the HausaFulani, he said, “Considering the economic situation and the peculiarities we have with us, we will immediately reopen the Shasha market. They will bring bulldozer to the market today (Tuesday).”

“When my brother governors visited Seriki Shasha palace, while we were working around, I realised that both the people I saw at Seriki’s place and those I met at Baale’s place were not happy because they have been deprived of doing their job.

“If you look at Oyo State, even when the COVID-19 was at its peak, I decided not to shut our market places because I know and also explained to the leadership of the country at the national level that in our state, we have people that the proceeds from what they get today will determine if they will eat tomorrow or not.

“Since peace has more or less returned to the market and the community, we have given the go-ahead that the market should be repealed.

I have also given instructions for some palliative works to be done. I have instructed that solar light be installed in the market any time of the day or night, we will see what is going on in the market.