The Edo State Authorities has suspended all market unions and associations throughout the state following reviews that their exploitative practices have contributed to rising meals prices and financial hardship.
This determination, accepted by Governor Monday Okpebholo, was introduced in an announcement issued by Umar Musa Ikhilor, Secretary to the State Authorities, on November 19, 2024.
The assertion revealed that market unions have been accused of stopping farmers from immediately promoting their produce to shoppers and arbitrarily fixing the costs of staple meals.
These practices, based on the federal government, have led to an astronomical enhance in meals costs, disproportionately affecting low-income earners and different weak teams within the state.
“The eye of the State Authorities has been drawn to the disturbing actions of market Unions within the State. Reviews abound that the Executives of those Unions both outrightly stop farmers from disposing of their wares on to shoppers on the markets or arbitrarily repair costs of those staple meals on the detriment of the low-income earners and customarily, the residents of the State,” the assertion learn partially.
It added, “Following from the foregoing, the Governor of Edo State, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo has accepted the suspension of the actions of all Market Unions in Edo State with instant impact.”
To make sure strict compliance with the directive, Governor Okpebholo has instructed safety businesses, together with the Police, to intently monitor the state of affairs, guaranteeing that the suspension order is adhered to with out exception. He additional directed that any union leaders discovered defying the order ought to be instantly apprehended and held accountable.
The Edo State Authorities acknowledged within the assertion the important contributions of market merchants to the state’s financial system, emphasizing their position in driving commerce and supporting livelihoods throughout communities.
The assertion reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to fostering a balanced financial atmosphere the place all stakeholders profit, guaranteeing that no group or particular person undermines the welfare of the broader group.
