South West traders operating at the Auto Spare Parts and Machine Dealers Association (ASPMDA), near Trade Fair Complex, have urged Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to, as a matter of urgency, restructure the Interim Management Committee (IMC) of the market for equity, justice and fair play.
According to the traders, this has become expedient as the committee is strategic to ushering in a new executive of the association.
ASPMDA Yoruba Forum Chairman, Akinsola Olatunde, said the IMC recently constituted by the government is unpopular and does not reflect the diversity of the market and the federal character principle. He said: “We wish to bring to the attention of the government that the IMC as presently constituted is unfair, unjust and lacking democratic principles.
“For the records, ASPMDA was jointly formed by the major ethnic groups in the market over three decades ago, so we are all co-founders.
“It is, therefore, unthinkable that government which is constitutionally saddled with the protection of lives and property will fall into the trap of marginalization and manipulation.”
His views were corroborated by the Yoruba Elders’ Forum Chairman, Ibrahim Olaleye, who recalled that three persons from the South West and two from South East registered ASPMDA.
He said it was unthinkable that the Yoruba would now be made to take the back seat in the running of the association.
Olaleye, who was supported by other leaders, including Nurudeen Adeniye, Lateef Ajisafe and Lateef Adeleke, called on Governor Sanwo-Olu to address the IMC composition without delay for justice to prevail.
He said this was significant to ensure peace and harmonious relationship in the market.