It is pertinent to nip in the bud, the current rumors, making the rounds in Eket and its environs, as it pertains to the proposed market construction in Eket.
In an attempt to discredit the Eket House member, Honourable David Lawrence, in his drive to see to a modern market in Eket, some persons have taken it upon themselves, to launch a media attack against the Deputy Chief Whip and the market project.
For the records, there is no fixed price for shops in Urua Nka, and the rumours of a N3million payment for each shop is totally untrue and unfounded.
The price for the shops will be determined, when the final bill of quantity is out, based on the final design.
Before now, the maiden contractor for the market was to use concrete components for the building, but the current Chinese handlers, are using low steel structures, which makes the prices for each shops to be far cheaper after completion of the project.
In addition, there will be concessions for market associations and indigenous people in the prices and payment plan. Also, there will be a tenant/occupying scheme, where payment plans are made.
Food vendors and petty traders on okro, pepper, etc, will be paying for stalls, not shops.
For instance, in the mortgage scheme, if the price for a shop is N1 million, each month, the proposed owner could pay N100,000, till the payment of the agreed sum is exhausted.
For every other person excluding the above stated persons, the shops will be sold at a market value.
It is instructive to note that, market associations and the Ekid people, will sit with the government to determine the price for each of the shops.
Urua nka is not David Lawrence market, but a market for the entire Ekid.
Media office of Honourable David Lawrence, Member, representing Eket State Constituency.