Monday Okpebholo has commissioned the rebuilt Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA) Complex in Ekpoma, located in Esan West Local Government Area, following its destruction by fire earlier in the year.
The complex, which housed more than 25 lock-up shops owned by police officers’ wives, was gutted by a fire incident on January 11, 2026, resulting in the loss of goods valued at hundreds of millions of naira.
During a visit shortly after the incident, the governor had pledged to rebuild the facility and provide financial support to affected traders.
At the commissioning, Okpebholo reaffirmed his commitment to those promises, noting that the project reflects the government’s dedication to supporting victims and restoring livelihoods.
“We all remember this market, about three or four months ago there was a fire incident here. We came here to inspect the level of damage and commiserate with the victims, promising to help rebuild the market.
“Today we are experiencing a fulfilled promise. This is the building you are seeing now, and it is good when you promise and you keep to that promise.
“You remember also that we promise that we are going to help traders come back, so we will have the names of the traders affected and we will release the sum of ₦200 million to support them and ensure they recover,” the Governor said.
He also reiterated plans to distribute ₦200 million to the affected traders to help them recover and resume business activities.
The rebuilding of the complex is expected to restore commercial activities in the area and provide relief to those impacted by the fire.
