The long-standing dispute between the United Allied Marble and Granite Dealers Association and the Irepodun Mechanical and Technicians Association of Nigeria,has finally inched toward a lasting peace following consequent reconciliation meetings convened by the Ifelodun LCDA 6th Legislative Assembly.
At another meeting, held Thursday at the Council Conference Hall shortly after the Assembly’s November 20 plenary, both groups admitted that their conflict stemmed largely from a breakdown of communication, love, and cordiality and so issues that could have been resolved privately without escalation crippled to the legislative chamber.
Representatives of both unions agreed to put past grievances behind them and to work harmoniously for mutual peace and progress within their shared business environment.
The mechanics conceded to confine their operations to the mosque end of the site, ensuring that other of their activities do not impede the passage or business access of the marble dealers. The marble dealers acknowledged this concession and noted that sustained understanding from both sides would be critical to peaceful coexistence.
Leader of the House, Hon. Ilesanmi Elijah Oluwatosin, who presided over the meeting, emphasized the need for love, unity, and mutual respect among the groups. He expressed concern over the growing tensions between Igbo and Yoruba traders in the area, urging both sides to reject division and avoid individuals who may be secretly fuelling conflict.
“We are not enemies,” he said. “Let us show love, strengthen understanding, and stand together to confront common challenges in your business environment.”
The Market Master Comrade Dickson Taofic Oluwatoyin Bashua also confirmed that a clear direction for settlement had now been established. He noted that even if the mechanics eventually obtain federal government approval for the setback use,they requested, they must still honour the agreement to operate mainly from the mosque side and promptly remove anything that obstructs access routes used by the marble dealers.
During the fact-finding session, participants identified lack of cordiality as the major cause of the misunderstanding. The mechanics had accused the marble dealers of using government agencies, particularly KAI, to harass their members and push them out of the site. The marble dealers denied the allegation, explaining that one of their own members still has a vehicle impounded by the same agency for more than Five months now. Their primary concern, they said, is the regular obstruction of access routes, which affects their ability to display and sell their wares.
Following extensive deliberations, both unions agreed to strengthen cooperation and to work together cohesively for their collective good.
Hon. Ilesanmi directed the mechanics and marble dealers to return to their respective unions and properly document the concessions reached, with the Market Master providing oversight to ensure adherence.
The reconciliation marks a major milestone in the Assembly’s ongoing efforts to promote peace, order, and economic stability across markets and business clusters within Ifelodun LCDA.
