From Gyang Bere, Jos
Plateau State governor, Simon Bako Lalong has warned politicians from using economic initiatives as a campaign weapon that has the danger of scaring away investors from putting their money in the state.
The governor was responding to recent controversies surrounding the planned rebuilding of the Jos Main Market, which he described as unnecessary and a distraction orchestrated by politicians who want to score cheap political points.
Lalong spoke while performing the foundation laying ceremony of two housing estates – Palm Estate in Dwei, Du District of Jos South Local Government, being developed by Odigbo Properties Ltd. He said the initiative was one of the benefits of restored peace and stability in Plateau State.
He commended the developer for choosing to come to the state and provide housing for the citizens who are in need of houses due to the huge deficit in the sector. He used the opportunity to speak on the issue of rebuilding the Jos Main Market that has generated needless controversy and is being exploited for political reasons.
“Let me make it abundantly clear that the Jos Main Market will forever remain the property of the Plateau State government managed by the Jos Main Market Authority, while the 40 year lease is for individuals that will buy the shops and not Jaiz Bank. I appeal to our people not to pay attention to the propaganda and political exaggerations being peddled that the market will be sold out to an Islamic bank.
“Apart from the fact that all willing and able citizens will get the opportunity to buy the shops, government will ensure that nobody is excluded or given undue advantage on account of faith, political affiliation or ethnicity,” he stated.
Chairman of Odigbo Properties, Ltd Mr Chikezie Tony said his company decided to embark on the project because of the peaceful atmosphere that has been engendered by Governor Simon Lalong as well as his business-friendly policies on land administration and ease of doing business.