The Enugu State Government has reacted to the protest by Ogbete Market traders which led to the reported killing of three persons.
Protest had erupted in Enugu Wednesday morning over the sealing of some shops by the Enugu State Government for complying with the Monday sit-at-home.
However, the protest later turned violent, with at least three residents shot dead.
Reacting, the Enugu State Government said it was working to unravel the circumstances behind the incident, as well as the reported casualty.
The government’s position was contained in a statement signed by Professor Chidiebere Onyia, Secretary to the State Government.
He said, “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. Government is receiving further briefings on the development.
“In the meantime, 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.”
