The Imo State government has launched a comprehensive forensic audit of 157 markets in various parts of the state. The exercise was performed at the Naze Timber and Allied Market, Owerri North Local Council of the state.
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The Commissioner for Trade, Commerce, and Investment, Rex Anubobi, stated that the government’s resolve to audit the markets was to ensure the integrity and efficiency of the system. He emphasised that the audit will scrutinise all aspects of market operations, identify weaknesses, and uncover fraudulent activities.

The commissioner also explained that the ministry would work to digitalise and restore confidence, protect investors, and promote a level playing ground for all stakeholders and developing partners in the market ecosystem.

He charged the electronic audit firm involved to conduct a thorough and unbiased investigation.

Speaking at the occasion, the Managing Director of the Amanda Group, Obinna Obiekweihe, the Special Adviser to the Governor of Imo State on Market, Chukwurah Onuoha, and the President of Owerri Building Materials Association, Okoro Nkwo Anthony, said the data capture would allow the state government and other relevant agencies to plan and prepare for interventions.

They emphasised that the exercise would enable the enumeration of traders and stores and the build-up of the required data, which would bridge the gap between the government and traders.

Anubobi was accompanied by some government officials, including the acting Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Basil Iwu, the Director-General of the Imo State Orientation Agency, Dr Ethelbert Okere, and the Senior Special Assistant to the governor on Electronic and Creative Media, Ambrose Nwaogwugwu, among others.
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