Respite as business activities bounce back after elections

Business activities especially in Lagos have returned to near normalcy after operational inertia occasioned by weekend’s elections.

The Guardian investigations revealed that many companies resumed full operations yesterday after the announcement of the election results and graceful sportsmanship exhibited by President Goodluck Jonathan.

Several companies, including the petroleum marketing firms, banks, ICT service firms, electricity outfits and many manufacturing companies had worked half day for the safety of their staff and facilities few days before the elections proper.

Apparently, the heavy traffic yesterday resumed across Lagos metropolis, the nation’s commercial nerve centre, indicating a restored zeal in the masses for daily business activities. The popular markets, such as Oshodi, Agege, Ikeja, Ile Epo, Idumota, Mile 12, among others were heavily populated with traders exhibiting various items confidently without fears.

The banks’ operations, particularly the Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) now have few queues, unlike what was recorded between last week and Tuesday, owing to panic withdrawals.

A power sector expert, Akin Adelakun, who spoke with The Guardian yesterday, confirmed that normal activities have resumed in the sector, adding that the staff now work without fears and are committed to duty for the normal working hours.

“It was great. I believe this will serve as a turning point for Nigeria. The way Mr President handled the matter was applaudible and that is why people could go out for businesses today (yesterday). As at last week, we were doing half day duty, but today all hands are on deck and people feel safe,” he said.

Also, investigations showed that loading activities have resumed in all the petroleum depots. The depots were shut to loading from Monday, which triggered fuel rationing at filling stations.

A worker with an oil marketing firm, John Okehs said yesterday that product lifting are ongoing as the company awaits the arrival of new cargoes at the Apapa jetty.

Okhes however urged the emerging leaders from the elections to serve the nation with utmost sincerity to ensure that the anticipated change actually take effect of the livelihood of Nigerians for the better.

According to him, the Presidential election has set precedence for the forthcoming Governorship, State House of Assemblies elections slated for April 11, 2015, which are also expected to peaceful and successful.