By Douglas Princemola
Hon. Engr. Kelechi Chikere, JP, has been elected Chairman of Relief Market, Owerri, after securing 762 votes in a peaceful, free, and transparent election held on Saturday, July 4, 2026.
The election, conducted at the premises of the Owerri Municipal Council, marked the end of the market’s leadership transition and the beginning of a fresh three-year tenure for Chikere, who had previously served as Chairman of the Relief Market Caretaker Committee.
The exercise was monitored by the Executive Chairman of Owerri Municipal Council, Hon. Bldr. Chidiebere Emeribe, who was represented by the Vice Chairman of the Council, Mr. Lawrence Okoye.
Speaking with journalists shortly after his victory, Chikere expressed gratitude to God and the traders for giving him the opportunity to serve as the elected leader of the market.
He described the outcome of the election as a clear mandate to provide quality leadership and to work in the interest of every trader, irrespective of tribe, religion, or political affiliation.
According to him, his administration will operate an open-door policy, where every trader will have the opportunity to contribute ideas that will promote peace, unity, and development within the market.
The newly elected Chairman also extended a hand of fellowship to his opponents, urging them to put the election behind them and join hands with his administration in the interest of the market.
He said elections naturally produce winners and losers, but stressed that the future of Relief Market depends on the willingness of all traders to work together with one common purpose.
Reflecting on his leadership journey, Chikere recalled that he won the market election in 2018 but later stepped aside after appeals from influential political leaders, despite spending over ₦6 million on his campaign.
He explained that he accepted the decision in good faith, allowing another trader from Owerri to serve as Chairman for the next three years.
Chikere said he remained patient and continued to contribute to the progress of the market until he was appointed by the Imo State Government as Chairman of the Relief Market Caretaker Committee.
During his time as Caretaker Committee Chairman, he said one of his major priorities was to encourage the conduct of a democratic election that would allow traders to freely choose their leaders.
He expressed satisfaction that the election had finally taken place, describing the process as a victory for democracy and for all traders in Relief Market.
Describing his emergence as an act of God, Chikere said, “I won this election through God and not by magic. God made me a winner, not by my own power.”
He assured traders that his administration would focus on promoting peace, improving the welfare of members, strengthening cooperation among traders, and creating an environment that supports business growth.
The Chairman-elect concluded by appealing to all contestants and their supporters to put aside political differences and work together to build a stronger and more prosperous Relief Market.
He expressed confidence that with unity, mutual respect, and the support of traders, the market would continue to grow and achieve greater success in the years ahead.
