The high-profile delegation was warmly received by key market leaders, including the President of the Badagry Benin Association/International Chamber of Commerce (BBA/ICC), the President of AutoParts, the President of the AutoParts Traders Association (APT), and other heads of major markets, as well as captains of industry. 

The meeting focused on addressing the fallout from recent demolitions and exploring pathways for recovery and justice.

The visit comes just a day after a massive joint protest by Trade Fair markets that brought the entire complex to a standstill for several hours. 

Traders, furious over the controversial demolition of at least 19 plazas in the ASPAMDA section—despite claims of federal approvals—shut all gates, voicing their grievances to media outlets present at the scene.

Various news crews captured the unrest, with protesters airing demands for compensation and an end to what they described as economic sabotage.

The demonstration left countless customers stranded outside the premises, as throngs of frustrated individuals gathered around the flyover bypass and underbridge areas, unable to access the markets. 

Businesses worth billions of naira were reportedly destroyed, exacerbating hardships amid Nigeria’s economic challenges.Obi, who has condemned the demolitions as “economically destructive” and a test of the nation’s commitment to justice and compassion, used the occasion to commiserate with affected traders. 

Accompanied by figures like Senators Enyinnaya Abaribe and Victor Umeh, he emphasized protecting enterprise and urged governments to prioritize fairness, especially for those who invested through loans to sustain their livelihoods.