For over eight years, the bustling streets of Jos, the Plateau state capital, particularly those surrounding Bauchi Road and Terminus, have been marred by chaos and congestion, a consequence of broken promises and governmental neglect. The fate of the people, traders, and the city itself has been subjected to the whims of an administration that failed to deliver on its commitments.
The heart of the issue lies in the absence of a functional market. Once a vibrant hub of economic activity, the market ground at Jos North local government area became a symbol of governmental neglect, left in ruins by the previous administration. Promises were made, assurances given, but action never followed. Instead, the people were left to navigate through the debris of broken dreams, forced to set up makeshift shops along the roadsides, further exacerbating the already congested city center.
The consequences were dire. Traffic snarls became a daily ordeal, with commuters and pedestrians alike grappling with the chaos that ensued. The once thriving commercial district transformed into a scene of disorder and frustration, as dreams of a revitalised market faded into obscurity.
Moreover, the proliferation of illegal structures provided fertile ground for criminal activities to flourish. Hidden within the labyrinth of makeshift shops, illicit dealings thrived, casting a shadow of insecurity over the city streets. Residents lived in fear, grappling with the repercussions of unchecked lawlessness that stemmed from the very structures meant to facilitate commerce.
However, amidst the despair, a glimmer of hope emerged with the recent actions of the state government. Recognising the urgent need for intervention, the current administration took bold steps to address the root of the problem. Illegal structures were demolished, clearing the clutter that had plagued the city streets for far too long.
But the government did not stop there. Understanding that mere demolition is not a solution, they provided an alternative. The provision of shops in the leveled market ground signifies a commitment to rectify past mistakes and breathe new life into the once abandoned space. By sending traders back into the market, the government aims to restore order and functionality to the city center, offering a long awaited reprieve to its residents.
The benefits of this initiative are manifold. Firstly, it addresses the immediate issue of congestion, alleviating the burden on both commuters and businesses. With illegal structures removed, traffic flow improves, fostering a safer and more efficient environment for all. Secondly, it revitalizes the economic heartbeat of the city, creating opportunities for local traders to thrive within a structured and regulated market space.
Furthermore, as we reflect on the recent developments surrounding Jos Market, it becomes imperative to transcend the confines of tribal and religious affiliations and embrace a progressive perspective. Historically, issues of governance in Jos have often been viewed through the lens of tribal and religious identity, fueling division and hindering collective progress.
The actions taken by the state government to address the plight of Jos Market exemplify this progressive mindset. By demolishing illegal structures and re-establishing order, the government aims to foster a conducive environment for economic growth and social cohesion. Such initiatives transcend tribal and religious boundaries, benefiting all residents of the city.
In essence, the revitalization of Jos Market serves as a call to arms for the people to unite under a banner of progress and development. It is only through collective effort and a shared vision for the future that Jos can overcome its challenges and emerge as a beacon of prosperity for all its inhabitants, regardless of tribal or religious affiliations.
Ahmed Tijjani Nakande,
Jos, Plateau state
