Benin City, Edo State – November 20, 2024
Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has taken decisive action to curb what his administration describes as exploitative practices in local markets by suspending all market unions and associations across the state with immediate effect. The directive, aimed at restoring fairness in trade, was announced in a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, and dated November 19, 2024.
In the statement, the governor accused market union executives of preventing farmers from selling their produce directly to consumers and arbitrarily setting high prices for essential goods, causing hardship for low-income earners. These actions, he stated, have led to a significant rise in the cost of staple foods in Edo, making life increasingly difficult for ordinary citizens.
“The attention of the State Government has been drawn to the disturbing activities of market unions in the State,” the statement read. “Reports abound that the executives of these unions either outrightly prevent farmers from disposing of their wares directly to consumers at the markets or arbitrarily fix prices of staple foods to the detriment of low-income earners and, generally, the citizens of the State.”
Governor Okpebholo described these activities as “extortionist in nature,” adding that they undermine the welfare of the public and hinder economic stability. While recognizing the contributions of traders to the state’s economy, the governor stressed that such exploitative practices cannot be tolerated.
In addition to suspending the unions, Governor Okpebholo directed law enforcement agencies to arrest any individuals or groups who defy the suspension order. “Security agents have been put on alert, and any person or group who decides to flout this directive would be held accountable,” the statement warned.
The suspension, viewed as a bold step to protect consumers and farmers, comes amidst widespread complaints of price hikes in markets across Edo State. Observers are now keenly watching how the enforcement of this directive will play out and what measures the state government will adopt to ensure fair pricing and market regulation moving forward.
The press release was signed by Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
