OVWIAN/Nigeria: In a stirring display of unity and defiance, women from the Ovwian Community, Udu Local Government Area of Delta State, took to the streets on Saturday, February 17, 2024, to peacefully protest against the reported unauthorized sale of a portion of the cherished Ovwian Harbour Market.
Armed with placards bearing powerful messages like “Ovwian Harbour Market Not for Sale” and “Buyer Beware,” these determined women marched through the community’s streets, their voices echoing with determination. As they gathered at the market entrance, their passion was palpable as they vehemently expressed their opposition to any privatization or sale of sections of this vital communal asset.
Leading the charge was Mrs. Mary Okoro, a respected trader within the community and the appointed leader of the protesters. In her address to the assembled newsmen, she left no room for doubt, stating unequivocally that the Ovwian market was intended for the collective benefit of the community. She vehemently opposed any individual’s attempt to profit at the expense of their community’s well-being.
Echoing the sentiments of Mrs. Okoro was Mr. Benson Karika, the esteemed Ovwian Harbour Market Master. With a mixture of shock and dismay, he recounted the events of the previous day when fully armed military personnel arrived at the market, issuing a chilling two-week ultimatum to the women occupying the shoreline area. Mr. Karika expressed his profound pain, questioning how any group could dare to sell property that rightfully belonged to the entire community.
Adding to the gravity of the situation, Mr. Karika highlighted the distressing timing of the sale, considering the recent efforts by Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, to revitalize the market’s infrastructure. These efforts, aimed at enhancing the market’s functionality and appeal, stood in stark contrast to the underhanded attempts to strip the community of its assets.
The protesters’ call was clear and resounding: they demanded the immediate intervention of the State Governor to help reclaim what was rightfully theirs – the Ovwian Harbour Market. As they stood united against the encroachment on their communal heritage, their voices echoed not only through the streets of Ovwian but reverberated across the conscience of all who bore witness to their unwavering resolve.
