The Ekiti State Government has announced plans to relocate the Iworoko Ekiti Central Market in the Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area to address recurring auto crashes that have led to significant loss of lives and property.
Deputy Governor Mrs. Monisade Afuye revealed this plan on Wednesday during a courtesy visit from community stakeholders in Ado Ekiti. The move comes in response to a series of tragic incidents, including a 2019 accident where a truck crashed into the market, resulting in 15 deaths, injuries, and substantial property damage. Another recent truck accident this month also claimed two lives.
In a statement released by her media aide, Victor Ogunje, Deputy Governor Afuye expressed the administration’s commitment to addressing these safety concerns. She conveyed Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s dedication to preventing further accidents and ensuring the safety of traders and residents.
Afuye stated, “I want to extend our condolences to the families affected by the recent tragedies. It is unacceptable that such incidents have occurred multiple times in the past five years. We recognize the urgent need for relocation as advised by the House of Assembly.”
She assured that the message would be relayed to Governor Oyebanji, and immediate action would be taken to address the issue.
In addition to the market relocation, the state government has pledged to expedite the installation of a new Alaworoko, a position that has been vacant since 2019 following the death of Oba Aladejana. Afuye encouraged the community to avoid legal disputes that could delay the selection process, emphasizing the need for a streamlined approach to resolve the chieftaincy issues.
Earlier, Regent Princess Bolanle Ogundola had highlighted the community’s grief over the 2019 truck accident and appealed for the prompt installation of a new monarch to aid in uniting her with her family.
The President of the Iworoko Progressive Union, Tajudeen Fatayo, reported additional recent fatalities and expressed frustration over obstacles in relocating the market. He mentioned that a family’s claim to land historically owned by the community has hindered progress. Fatayo also urged the government to address encroachments on land belonging to Iworoko Community High School to protect the town’s educational heritage.
