Traders at the Makurdi Modern Market in Benue State on Tuesday shut down the market in protest against what they described as persistent cases of car theft and rising insecurity within the premises.

When our correspondent visited the market, the main entrance was locked, and dozens of traders, police officers, and security operatives were seen outside discussing the situation. Shoppers and business visitors were stranded as they were denied access to the market.

The protesting traders vowed not to open for business for the next two days to express their frustration over what they called the government’s failure to protect their property.

One of the traders, Mazi Ezenna, lamented the increasing rate of car theft, saying the situation had reached an alarming level.

He said, “We are tired of complaining about insecurity in the market. There is no security at all. Between September and November 1, no fewer than six vehicles were stolen from here. Customers drive into the market, park their cars, and by the time they return, their vehicles are gone.

“We have lost too many cars this year. So we decided to stay off the market for two days to reflect and also demand that the government provide proper security in and around the market.”

Efforts to get official comments from market leaders proved unsuccessful, as none was willing to speak to the press.

Meanwhile, the Benue State Commissioner for Industry, Trade and Investment, Mr. Orpin Alumo, confirmed receiving reports of insecurity in the market but said the ministry was not officially notified about the protest.

According to him, the traders had earlier written to his office, informing the ministry of plans to hold a session of fasting and prayers without specifying the date or time.

Alumo acknowledged the growing security lapses in the market and disclosed that the state government had begun working with relevant stakeholders to strengthen surveillance and enforcement.

“We have held a meeting with union officials and agreed on measures to improve security. However, traders must also take responsibility because security is everybody’s business,” he said.

The commissioner hinted that there might be elements of sabotage involved, adding that he had contacted the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, who promised to deploy members of the community volunteer guards to the market.

He appealed to the traders to cooperate with the state government as plans were underway to rehabilitate and overhaul the market’s infrastructure and security systems.

The protest marks one of several recent demonstrations across Benue State as residents increasingly express frustration over the rising wave of thefts and insecurity in major public spaces.