By Abbanobi-Eku Onyeka
The Executive Mayor of Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra State, Hon. Shedrack Azubuike, has dismissed reports that the Eke Owerre-Ezukala Modern Market project has been abandoned, assuring residents that the market will be completed.
The assurance was contained in a statement issued by the Mayor’s Office on Sunday in response to claims circulating on social media that work on the project had been halted following the death of the late Rt. Hon. Arch. Francis Ibeh.
According to the statement, the council became aware of concerns raised by stakeholders and supporters in Owerre-Ezukala over a voice note alleging that the project had been abandoned.
The Mayor’s Office described the claims as “false, misleading, and do not reflect the true position of the Council,” insisting that the project remains a priority for the administration.
The statement recalled that the late Francis Ibeh, former Leader of the Orumba South Legislative Council, was murdered on November 8, 2025, while carrying out his civic responsibilities. It noted that Ibeh played a pivotal role in attracting the modern market project to Owerre-Ezukala.
According to the council, the temporary suspension of construction was a deliberate decision taken as a mark of respect for the late legislative leader and should not be interpreted as an abandonment of the project.
“It was never an indication that the project had been abandoned or forgotten,” the statement said.
Azubuike reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to completing the Eke Owerre-Ezukala Modern Market, adding that the project would serve as a lasting tribute to Ibeh’s contributions to the development of Orumba South.
He urged residents of Owerre-Ezukala and the wider Orumba South Local Government Area to disregard what he described as unfounded rumours and remain confident in the council’s commitment to grassroots development.
The Mayor also called on residents to support security agencies by embracing the Anambra State Government’s security campaign, “If You See Something, Say Something,” and to provide useful information that could assist in bringing those responsible for Ibeh’s killing to justice.
