the Akwa Ibom State Traders Association under the leadership of the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Market Matters, Akparawa IDORENYIN RAPHAEL has moved to put an end to forceful market unions in the State.

The development is in order to alleviate the sufferings of Akwa Ibom market people. Over the weekend, the Akwa Ibom State Market Monitoring Team took a tour toUrua Akpan Andem in Uyo,UruaMbakara and other markets in Ikot Ekpene.

Speaking at Urua Akpan Andem, Akparawa IDORENYIN RAPHAEL maintained that no trader should be forced to belong to any market union, affirming that such an act is punishable by law. He also noted that issue of ticketing in the market will be tackled.

Speaking also at UruaMbakara, the Governor’s Aide said that he was happy to discover the absence of union or ticketing in Ikot Ekpene market, reiterating that no one should be forced to join any market union.

He further revealed that the Governor’s plan to build an international market in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area still stands, and that it is a proof that he has good intentions for both the traders and people.

Mr RAPHAEL added that the Governor had released 1.5 billion naira interest-free loan to traders with 500 million naira to be allocated to each Senatorial district.He urged traders to register their names at Ibom FADAMA Micro Finance Bank through their respective unions so as to get their share of the money.