By Kelechi Esogwa-Amadi
Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has finally reopened the popular Ikeoku motor spare parts market, more than four weeks after shutting it down.
Governor Wike had shut down the spare parts market following the alleged refusal of dealers and mechanics operating there to comply with his lockdown order.
He also threatened that the state government could take over the site if the Ikoku traders continue to violate the lockdown rules.
But by afternoon today, rumours started circulating that the governor would soon reopen the market.
The traders, on getting the hint, began to gather around Ikoku junction, Mile 2, Diobu, Port Harcourt, in anticipation, with all eyes focusing on the soldiers who had blocked the Ikoku-Waterlines Route with their tank for weeks.
Gradually, the soldiers moved their armoured tank from the entrance to the road and parked it inside the triangular lawn at the round-about.
Immediately, the Ikoku traders rushed into the market to open their shops.
Cars also started plying the Ikoku-Waterlines route immediately.
Reacting to the development, one of the Ikoku spare parts dealers told TPCN: “I’m very happy. It’s over four weeks now that I have not seen money in my hand because of this shutdown. I thank God that the governor has opened it for us.”
