The call for change in market leaderships in Abia State has been a recurring theme, with traders and stakeholders demanding credible leaders who prioritize their welfare. As Peter Block aptly puts it, "Change from the top down happens at the will and whim of those below." This emphasizes the importance of leaders listening to the needs of their constituents.¹

In Abia State, Governor Alex Otti has shown willingness to address the concerns of traders. For instance, he intervened in the shop allocation crisis at Ariaria International Market, ensuring that no shop owner loses their shop.² He also flagged off the remodeling of Ekeoha Market, promising that shop owners will retain their shops.³

However, the demand for new market leaderships requires a more comprehensive approach. As Warren Bennis said, "Followers who tell the truth, and leaders who listen to it, are an unbeatable combination." This underscores the need for open communication and trust between leaders and their constituents.

To address the concerns of traders and stakeholders, Governor Otti should consider the following:

- *Establish a dialogue mechanism*: Create a platform for traders and stakeholders to express their concerns and suggestions, ensuring that their voices are heard.
- *Conduct a leadership assessment*: Evaluate the current market leaderships to identify areas of improvement and ensure that they are accountable to the traders they represent.
- *Foster transparency and accountability*: Implement measures to ensure that market leaderships are transparent in their decision-making processes and accountable for their actions.
- *Provide training and capacity building*: Offer training and capacity-building programs for market leaders to enhance their skills and knowledge, enabling them to better serve the traders.

By taking these steps, Governor Otti can demonstrate his commitment to addressing the concerns of traders and stakeholders, ultimately leading to a more harmonious and prosperous market environment.