Scores injured as rival youths clash in Owerri

• Okorocha orders traders to relocate within seven days

Scores of people have been injured in protests by youths against the recent demolition of Ekeukwu Market in Owerri, the Imo State capital.

The Guardian leant that the clash, between Owerri and Ohaji/Egbema youths was caused by the death of a 10-year-old kid, Somtochukwu Ibeanusi and others injured during the demonstration.

The protest created panic as people scampered for safety, including commuters who were stranded at various locations in the city. The protest forced many motorists to park their vehicles in safe places to avoid being attacked.

The protesters operated at Njemanze/Douglas Road, Control junction and Port Harcourt Roads. Many of the youths were armed with dangerous weapons before the police were deployed to disperse them.

Meanwhile, Governor Rochas Okorocha has given the traders at New Market in Owerri, seven days to relocate to their various markets or face sanctions.

Okorocha gave the ultimatum on Tuesday in Owerri, during an interactive session with the traders at the Government House

The governor also directed the traders, under the aegis of Amalgamated Market Traders Association, in Ogbosisi, Akachi, Nekede Mechanic village and Njoku Saw Mill to relocate to the designated markets at Egbeada, Naze, Relief Markets.

He disclosed that the sum of N1.5 billion would be disbursed for the construction of road network, police station, electricity, bore hole and other infrastructure at the markets.

He told the traders to occupy the stalls free of charge for three months before discussing the conditions at a later date. The governor disclosed that about 10,000 shops were ready for occupation.