The Enugu State Government responded to the protest by Ogbete Market traders, which resulted in the alleged loss of three lives.
It stated that it was actively investigating the details surrounding the incident, including the reported casualty.
The government’s stance was articulated in a statement endorsed by Professor Chidiebere Onyia, the Secretary to the State Government. HE stated , “The Enugu State Government received with grave concern the ugly incident at Ogbete Main Market, Enugu, today.
“Information available to the Government shows that traders whose shops were sealed for non-compliance with Government’s order banning Monday sit-at-home, defied the instruction on how the shops should be reopened and resorted to self-help by removing the seals.
“This led to internal squabbles between the market leadership and some of the affected traders.“The ensuing confrontation resulted in a protest, which was infiltrated and hijacked by dangerously armed hoodlums and miscreants, who broke shops and looted traders’ wares.
“Attempts by security operatives to restore order and prevent further looting were violently resisted by the imported and armed hoodlums. The government is receiving further briefings on the development.
“In the meantime, an investigation to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the reports of casualty, is already ongoing.
“Government calls on the people and residents of Enugu to remain calm and go about their lawful businesses, as adequate security measures are in place to secure lives and property in the State.”