Nnaji promises free shops for traders affected by market demolitions in Enugu

Uche Nnaji, the governorship candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Enugu State, has promised to rebuild markets that were demolished. He also said he would provide free shops to traders affected by these demolitions if he is elected.

Mr Nnaji plans to review the state’s tax system. He wants to remove what he calls excessive and exploitative taxes to help traders and small business owners.

The former minister of Science, Technology and Innovation made these promises on Sunday. He spoke while welcoming a coalition of interest groups at his campaign office in Enugu.

The group included leaders from the Arewa Northern Forum, traders and artisans who lost their shops in Gariki Market, members of the Inter-Faith Council, and leaders from non-indigene communities.

Other stakeholders were also present at the meeting. They showed support for Mr Nnaji and complained about the hardship that came with the demolitions and multiple taxes.

They also talked about the challenges of finding places to trade in the state.

Mr Nnaji said his administration would look into what led to the demolitions. He wants to create plans to help restore the livelihoods of traders who were affected.

He noted that the loss of businesses has brought serious hardship to many families.

The candidate stressed that the government should focus on creating wealth and taking care of citizens instead of making policies that leave people poor.

"From the experience people have had and the trauma they have gone through, I know for a fact that many people have died," he said.

Mr Nnaji said his administration would review the issues facing traders whose shops were demolished. He would also consider building new markets for them.

He mentioned that the plans would depend on the resources available to the state government. But he insisted that restoring the livelihoods of traders is very important.

He said the party’s new slogan, "No More Tax", shows their commitment to addressing complaints about multiple taxes from residents and business owners.

"One of the first things we will do when we assume office is to remove these taxes so that our people can breathe fresh air once again.

"Our people are being suffocated by the burden they are carrying, and we want them to have relief," Mr Nnaji said.

He also promised to resolve disputes related to filling stations on land meant for markets.

He said his government would look into moving those filling stations to other sites so trading can continue.

Mr Nnaji described trading as a key part of the people’s economic and social life. He believes government policies should help protect this sector.

He also promised to support an industrialization program to develop industries in oil, cement, iron ore, and steel.

He said this program would create jobs and boost economic activities in the state.

According to him, industrial centers would be paired with residential estates and new urban communities to improve living conditions and create jobs.

"We are looking at opportunities in oil, cement, iron ore, and steel, with plans to make progress within two years. These industries will create substantial employment, both directly and indirectly.

"Around the industrial centers, we intend to establish estates and develop new cities. These will be employment-generating urban centers that can support economic growth and improve people’s living conditions," Mr Nnaji added.

The PDP candidate also shared that his administration is thinking about providing free medical care for elderly residents aged between 65 and 70.

He concluded by saying that his goal is not to make money from public office but to build a better future for the youth in Enugu State.