Authorities of Warri South Local Government in Delta State have debunked the speculation of closure of Igbudu Market in Warri on Saturday, June 17.
The clarification by the Warri South Council comes on the heels of the speculation being peddled on social media platforms that the biggest and the most famous Igbudu market will be shut on Saturday in observance of the rites of passage of the Ovie of Agbarha, Warri, HRM London Orhifi Ememoh II.
While dismissing the speculation in a statement on Friday, the Chairman of Warri South Local Government, Dr. Michael Tidi, said sellers and buyers at the market should freely and orderly go about their transactions on Saturday.
Dr. Tidi asserted that the rite of passage of the monarch does not pose any security threat to traders in Igbudu market and customers intending to carry out their usual purchases at the market on that day.
While restating his administration’s resolve to sustain the support of traditional institutions in Warri South Local Government Area, Dr. Tidi, emphasized that unwarranted closure of markets and other business concerns at this time when people are struggling with the economic difficulties heightened by the removal of fuel subsidy, was unnecessary.
One of such speculative message regarding the planned closure of the market being circulated on social media platforms read, “PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT!!! Good evening Foursquarians this is to notify everyone that Igbudu Market won’t be open this SATURDAY because they’re burying their king, no human being should be found in or around the market area if you’re not an indigene, please It’s very serious. Please help pass the message to your friends and relatives.”
