Chairman of Zinox Group, a leading technology company in Africa and base in Lagos, South West Nigeria, Chief Leo Stan Ekeh, has offered to assist traders in Owerri, Imo State, South East Nigeria with N50 million to alleviate the lost incurred when state government destroyed their market.
Astute businessman often known as serial technology inventor in Africa also called on citizens of the State to allow peace to reign in the aftermath of the crisis and reported loss of lives which trailed the demolition of the market called Eke Ukwu market.
Ekeh, a native of Owerri, said the donation of N50 million will be disbursed to those directly affected in the market and families of the victims who unfortunately lost their lives during the confrontation between the security operatives and the traders.
While making the donation, Ekeh expressed said he is optimistic that the donation on will help cushion the effects of the demolition of the source of their livelihood and calm the tense situation in Owerri, pleading with those affected not to allow themselves to be used to cause trouble in the state.
Head of Leo Stan Ekeh (LSE) Foundation, Mr. Niyi Onabanjo represented Ekeh at the presentation disclosed that a committee has already been set up and headed by Chief Ambrose Ejiogu to address every issues concerning the plight of the traders irrespective of where they are from whether they are indigenes of Owerri, Orlu, Okigwe or from neighbouring states.
He said that other members of the committee are: Dr. Vin Udokwu (Secretary), Chief C.Y Amako, Prof. Obioma Iheduru, Chief Emeka Ekwebelem, Mrs. Chuks Ekemaru, Dr. Canice Nwosu, Prof. Henry Njoku, Sam Nwoke and Chief Analyn Nwaneri, among others.
The committee’s mandate is to work with the leadership of the market association in identifying those affected for disbursement of the funds to them.
Onabanjo said Ekeh recently awarded a multi-million Naira contract for a comprehensive refurbishment of a Practical Entrepreneurship Centre sited inside a market in Owerri which is slated for commissioning first week of November as a model.
He believes if the model works, the Imo state government may replicate same in other regions for the benefit of her citizens.
“Though a private initiative, I am sure he would have mentioned it to the State Governor. He intends to invite quality multinationals like Microsoft, Google, HP, IBM, Cisco, Facebook etc. to come and inspire Imo State youths so that they can see the bigger picture of the global wealth roadmap. As a promoter of knowledge democracy, he has been quietly assisting his state in the little ways he can.” has been quietly assisting his state in the little ways he can.”
Isaiah Erhiawarien, West Africa
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