Who Gave Otunba Seye Famojuro Authority Over Our Market Associations | Morilat Abosede

…Raises Questions About Political Interference, the Rights of Market Traders.

There comes a time in the history of every society when silence over matters of public accountability becomes increasingly difficult to justify.

I have read with deep concern the report that newly recognised market leaders in Oyo State visited Otunba Seye Famojuro to express appreciation to him and Governor Seyi Makinde for their support.
The visit raises an important question about the independence of our market institutions and the appropriate boundaries between private political influence and public authority.

What constitutional, statutory or formally delegated authority, if any, does Otunba Seye Famojuro possess in the administration or recognition of market leadership across Oyo State’s 33 local government areas?

This question deserves a clear and transparent answer.

Otunba Famojuro, like every Nigerian citizen, is entitled to political relationships, personal influence and freedom of association. However, political proximity to a governor does not, by itself, confer executive authority over independent traders’ associations.

Equally, a courtesy or appreciation visit does not automatically establish that he directed the selection of market leaders. The public deserves evidence and clarification rather than assumptions.

THE POSITION OF ALHAJA SARATU KONIBAJE MUST NOT BE IGNORED

The controversy surrounding Alhaja Saratu Konibaje makes transparency particularly important.

What rules governed the recognition of the new Iyaloja General? Were the established market associations consulted? Was there an election, an appointment or another recognised selection procedure? What happened to the existing leadership claims and the rights of those who supported Alhaja Konibaje?

These questions are not intended to deny the new leaders a fair hearing. They are intended to ensure that all parties, including Alhaja Konibaje and her supporters, receive equal treatment.

Market leadership should not become a reward for political loyalty or a punishment for political disagreement.

PUBLIC ACCOUNTABILITY MUST BE GREATER THAN PERSONAL INFLUENCE

The people of Oyo State deserve to know whether decisions affecting their market associations were made by the associations themselves, by officials exercising lawful authority, or through informal political arrangements.

The distinction matters.
A private citizen may advise, mediate or offer support. But where a decision requires public authority, the legal basis, responsible office and applicable procedure should be identifiable.

Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration can address these concerns by publicly clarifying the government’s role in the recognition process and explaining what safeguards exist against political interference.

The same standard of transparency should apply to every administration, regardless of political party.

THE RIGHT TO QUESTION AUTHORITY IS FUNDAMENTAL

There is nothing improper about citizens asking how decisions affecting their livelihoods are made.
Concerned traders and residents may seek written explanations from the relevant authorities, request access to applicable association constitutions and appointment procedures, submit petitions, convene lawful stakeholder meetings and exercise their constitutional rights to peaceful assembly.

Such civic participation should remain peaceful, voluntary and respectful of differing opinions. No trader should face intimidation or retaliation for supporting either Alhaja Saratu Konibaje or the newly recognised leadership.

The essential question remains: Who has the lawful authority to determine market leadership in Oyo State, and what limits apply to the involvement of individuals who hold no executive office?

This question deserves a documented answer, not political hostility.