Edo State Government has firmly reaffirmed the suspension of all Market Unions and Associations, a decision designed to regulate market activities and protect the welfare of traders and consumers in the State.
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Sir (Dr.) Lucky Eseigbe , who stated this while receiving Executives of the National Union of Market Traders Employees of Nigeria, at his office in Benin City, emphasized that the suspension was in line with the Government’s objective to restore order and ensure fair trading practices in local markets.
He further pointed out that the suspension of Market Unions and Associations was initiated after concerns arose regarding their impact on market stability. The Unions and Associations according to reports, determined commodity prices and restricted access to markets, which led to inflated prices and exploitation of traders. In recent months, the prices of essential commodities, such as garri, were reportedly raised to excessive levels, causing public dissatisfaction. The price of garri, for instance, which had soared to 12,000 naira per “mudu” has now dropped to a more affordable 6,000 to 7,000 naira following the suspension.
The Honourable Commissioner further reaffirmed that the suspension remains in full force and security agencies had been put on alert, warning that anyone or group violating the directive of the Governor on the suspension of Market Unions and Associations in Edo State, would be made to face the law.
“If anything happens in Edo State, it is the Executive Governor that will be called upon. We cannot flout the Government order. The suspension of Market Unions and Associations is still in force”. He said.
Sir (Dr.) Lucky Eseigbe further explained that Local Government Councils were the designated bodies for regulating market activities and generating revenue, making it clear that no Market Union or Association should interfere with the day-to-day functioning of the markets.
He stated that the essence of Unions and Associations is to proffer solutions and cater to the welfare of its members when the need arises.
On his part, Edo State Chairman, National Union of Market Traders Employees of Nigeria, Comrade Osagie Oduwa Godwin while appreciating the Commissioner, stated that the reason for the visit was to introduce the Union and its Executives to the Ministry and also seek collaboration
