Epe was thrown into celebration yesterday as the member representing Epe Federal Constituency at the House of Representatives, Rep. Wale Raji commissioned the newly reconstructed ancestral Ayetoro Market and handed over the shops, free-of-charge, to original allottees and new traders. The lawmaker described the feat as “a renewal of hope.”
Party leaders of the Lagos State APC, monarchs, local government officials and elated traders turned the ancient town festive as they applauded what many called a defining moment in Epe’s economic history.
Raji, speaking during an interview, said the event was “beyond furnishing bricks and mortars, it’s a renewal of hope for the traders.” He recalled that the market, which “has been in existence for close to 100 years,” was demolished about a decade ago, leaving the land fallow and many believing “people never dreamt of a day like this that they would have a place called Aiyetoro market.”
He noted that the reconstructed market now features “about 400 shops all together,” adding that the most historic part is that the shops are being “returned to the original owners and new ones at no cost, free of charge, unprecedented and contrary to regular practice.”
On the political will behind the redevelopment, Raji remarked: “It only shows that when there’s commitment on the part of a political office holder, everything and anything is possible.”
Reacting to the praises he received, the lawmaker said: “It is natural when you’re committed to performing the saddled responsibilities of your office, it serves as an encouragement to do more.” He reaffirmed his pledge that “we are here to serve Epe, to improve their livelihood and actualise the primary purpose of Government.”
Lagos State APC Chairman, Hon. Cornelius Ojelabi who officially commissioned the market, hailed the project as a model of responsible leadership. “I’m highly impressed witnessing this laudable achievement,” he said, adding that with leaders like Senator Tokunbo Abiru and Raji, “Epe is blessed.” He further noted that Raji’s “credibility makes his performances so superb.”
The Oloja of Epeland, HRM Oba Ishola Animashaun, praised the lawmaker for his “frantic efforts” toward developing Epe. While presenting the market keys to the Baba Oloja and Iya Oloja, he urged them to ensure the facilities are used “meaningfully for the economic growth of Epe.”
The monarch also commended APC Epe Divisional Leader, Alhaji Shakirudeen Akanni Seriki (Bamu), for giving Epe “quality representative like Wale Raji.”
Alhaji Seriki (Bamu) expressed delight at the “unprecedented achievements” of the federal lawmaker and encouraged party members to remain united for the progress of APC and Epe division.
Epe LG Chairman, Hon. (Princess) Surah O. Animashaun, described the day as a milestone for grassroots upliftment. She said the modern market stands as “a symbol of renewed hope and expanding economic opportunities,” applauding Raji for delivering “people-centered projects” that strengthen the division’s economic backbone. She added that the upgrade would offer “a safe, organized, and modern environment” that empowers small businesses.
Amid chants, prayers and applause, traders received their shop allocations, completely free, marking what many described as a new dawn for commerce in Epe.
