Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi has issued a warning against the illicit sale and purchase of stores and properties at the state's well-known Kpirikpiri market.
This was said in a statement released on Wednesday in Abakaliki by Mr. Uchenna Orji, the state commissioner for information and orientation.
Umahi issued a warning to those involved, stating that the state government would take legal action against offenders.
“It has come to the notice of the governor that some local government officials of Ebonyi Local Government Council are illegally selling lands and shops at Kpirikpiri Market.
“The sellers and buyers should know that the market is within the capital and as such belongs to the state government.
“We hereby, give notice of revocation of all lands and shops at Kpirikpiri market.
“All occupants are directed to proceed to the state Ministry of Market Development for appropriate documentation and payment to government.
“Take note that where such occupants fail and or neglect to come to the ministry for documentation and payment within the stipulated time, they shall be held responsible for breach of the state Land Use Regulations,” he advised.
The governor noted that after seven days from Wednesday, all lands and shops whose occupants failed to make their papers and appropriate payments would be shut.
“All the perpetrators, no matter whom they are, shall be brought to book,’’he said.
The governor stressed that the state government had not given anyone the right to sell any shop or land at the Kpirikpiri market, adding that, “all concerned have been sufficiently admonished’’.