In a move to address the internal crisis affecting markets in Edo State, Governor Monday Okpebholo has ordered the temporary suspension of all Market Unions and Associations in the state.
In a statement signed on Tuesday, November 19, by the Secretary to the Edo State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, and released to journalists by the Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, on Wednesday, November 20, the governor attributed the high cost of food items to the activities of union executives in the markets.
The government identified the unions’ refusal to allow farmers to sell their produce directly to consumers as a key reason behind the high cost of food, noting that this practice, in turn, makes life more difficult for residents of the state.
The statement read, “The attention of the State Government has been drawn to the disturbing activities of market unions in the state. 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 the prices of staple foods to the detriment of low-income earners and, generally, the citizens of the state.
“Their actions have ultimately led to an astronomical rise in the prices of staple food in the state, thereby making life unbearable for the common Edo man. The Edo State Government views this action with serious concern and considers it extortionist in nature, which should not be allowed to thrive.”
Ikhilor acknowledged the contributions of union leaders and praised traders for their role in the state’s economy. However, he emphasized that the government would not allow a few individuals, under the guise of market union executives, to hold the state to ransom through selfish and extortionist activities.
Announcing the immediate effect of the suspension, Ikhilor stated:
“Following from the foregoing, the Governor of Edo State, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has approved the suspension of the activities of all market unions in Edo State with immediate effect.”
He further warned: “Security agents have been put on alert, and any person or group who decides to flout this directive will be held accountable.”
The statement, however, did not specify the duration of the suspension or outline the next steps the state government plans to take regarding the unions.