As a follow up to the story on the relocation of Ikeja
Computer Village Katangowa shows a vivid
picture of a disorganised setting. While the major entrance to the market from
Lagos-Abeokuta expressway is almost taken over by street traders, a large
portion of the market has been overtaken by refuse. During the visit, some of
the items seen on display in the market in large quantities were clothes, bags,
shoes, curtains, belts and other textile materials.
Also, many
women and young girls were seen selling vegetable, fish, tomato, pepper and
other food items in the market. While most of the dealers in textile materials
operated in small shops, those trading in food items displayed their wares on
the sidewalk thereby disrupting free flow of traffic around the market.
At the back
of the market, which leads to Saint Peters Anglican Church, there were
structures serving as residential homes. Lagos State Commissioner for Physical
Planning and Urban Development, Mr. Olutoyin Ayinde, said measures were being
put in place by the state government to rehabilitate Katangowa and thus fast
track the relocation of the Computer Villagers traders.
On if there
are underlying interests within the ministry to handle Ikeja project, he said,
“This is not a direct labour project, so there is nothing like personal
interest. Financial challenge made some companies that expressed interest
initially to back out, but we still have those who submitted their proposals
with us. In order to select a credible firm with the required financial
capability and technical-know-how to handle the project, we have engaged a
Transaction Advisor, who will look at the request for proposals from bidders
and give government expert advice on the best company to engage. So that the
project, when finally awarded, will be well executed. The government is
methodical in approach by following due process. This is what people should appreciate”.
VANGUARD
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