Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has announced the immediate suspension of all Market Unions and Associations throughout the state. This move comes in response to concerning reports about the activities of these unions, which have been obstructing farmers from selling their goods directly to consumers and arbitrarily fixing prices for staple foods, negatively impacting low-income earners.
The directive was communicated through a notice from the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, dated November 19, 2024, as disclosed by Fred Itua, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Okpebholo. In light of the unions’ actions, the Governor has instructed the police and other security agencies to promptly arrest leaders of the suspended organizations who fail to comply with the order.
Governor Okpebholo emphasized that the escalated prices of staple food and the resulting hardship for everyday citizens have prompted the state government to take this decisive action. “The attention of the State Government has been drawn to the disturbing activities of market Unions in the State. Their actions have ultimately led to an astronomical rise in the prices of staple food, making life unbearable for the common Edo man,” he stated.
While acknowledging the important role of market traders in the state’s economy, the Governor underscored that the selfish actions of a few individuals masquerading as union executives would not be tolerated. “The Edo State Government views this action with serious concern and considers it extortionist in nature, which should not be allowed to thrive,” he warned.
The statement concluded with a note that security agents have been alerted to enforce the suspension vigorously, and those who attempt to defy this directive will be held accountable.
