The controversial ‘colonial market’ called Isi-Gate in the capital of Abia State, Umuahia, is thriving despite concocted state government efforts to relocate it.
To facilitate relocation, former Governor Theodore Orji even built a big modern market in the capital’s outskirts. The traders reaction to repeated government stall demolition effort at Isi-Gate is to convert every available space into makeshift stalls kiosks and mini markets.
Isi-Gate market, established during the colonial times, is strategically located on the entrance roads to Umuahia, easily attracting customers and motorists.
Town planners have repeatedly advised the state government to solve the problem by aesthetically reconstructing the existing Isi-Gate Market.