The Chairman of the Timber Market at Eligbolo in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State, Mr. Kingsley N.C. Wali has described the market as unique both quality woods and safe environment, thereby solicited for patronage from the public.
Speaking to newsmen recently, the chairman said many such timber markets in Port Harcourt have experienced attacks from hoodlums (thieves) while in the course of transacting business. Some were as a result of insiders’ information. He said such unwholesome practices were not heard or seen at the market, since it started operation 6 years ago. “Since 6 years we started the business no record of criminal activities here. We guard against them. We have security men on guard 24 hours and they will not compromise.
Therefore, no record of people attacked or money collected. We have safe environment to do our genuine business and we are not cheat, that is why the business is progressing and expanding.
On health hazards often associated with such business, he dismissed the claims from certain quarters that burning of sawed dust and noisy equipment that make inhabitants uncomfortable, were present stressing that, members were adequately provided for. The clinic, first aid and medical personnel are on hand to have regular check on their health status. We do not cause pollution or noise. We do not burn our sawed dust, but we dump into the swamp to fill it.
Adding the LGA authority is aware of our stay and the operation and approved of it, We have first aid box, clinic that treat people, and we have never recorded any industrial accident. We invited some medical personnel to come and check our people, to know their health status and treat them, based on their diagnosing.” He, however, used the occasion to solicit for customers to patronize their products, stating that their safety and value for their money will be satisfied and guaranteed.
Mr Wali said their business is operated with the fear of God, pointing out that every Wednesday, men of God are invited to preach and pray for their lives and business.
This he said helped to prosper the business and “we have love and work as one big family”.###
