Peter Obi, a former presidential candidate for the Labour Party, has called for the restoration of Onitsha’s Head Bridge Market so that those in need can survive and earn a living.
He claims that honest merchants who depend on the market for their livelihood are being negatively impacted by the regulatory and security agencies’ decision to completely shut it down.
Obi stated his understanding and support for the necessity to restrict the sale of illegal, hard, and outdated medications in certain areas of the market, but he urged the relevant authorities to do so without closing the market altogether.
He claimed that because of the complete market closure, several innocent businessmen who deal in other legitimate materials had lost their means of subsistence.
According to reports, Obi posted the submission on Monday using his 𝕏 account.
“Regulatory and security officials have blocked the entire Head Bridge Market in Onitsha because of suspected drug trafficking in the Ogbo Ogwu area of the market.
For the sake of society’s health and safety, I am calling for the immediate reopening of nearby markets that were also negatively impacted by the closure, even though I vehemently condemn such illegal drug trading activities and urge the government to take all necessary steps to stop the sale of fake goods, particularly drugs, and bring those responsible to justice.
“It seems excessive and unjustified to shut down other nearby markets that are not involved in addition to the Ogbo Ogwu Market, such as Rod, Allied and Tools, Plumbing Materials, Timber, Surgical, and Provision Markets.”
Peter Obi argued, “Therefore, I call for their immediate reopening, since their ongoing closure is negatively impacting the livelihoods of millions, particularly during this challenging time in our nation.”
We Dealt with Similar Problems Speaking further, Obi suggested that a more transparent and balanced approach be taken in resolving the issue because the state and other relevant authorities should not overlook the financial consequences of their actions on those who have been excluded from the market due to circumstances that are not their fault.
Additionally, the search must to be transparent, with store owners present when their establishments are examined and products taken out in accordance with the law and due process.
“Why expand the shutdown to other marketplaces if the intention is to carry out a valid search? What offenses have they committed?
“We encountered similar circumstances on several occasions while I was the governor of Anambra state.
Read Also: Military Jet Bombs Katsina Village, Six Civilians Dead
“Whenever we came across hazards to public health, we worked cooperatively and methodically with the appropriate agencies to address them. We collaborated extensively with security and regulatory organizations to ensure due process and fairness in cases that required market interventions.
This strategy protected livelihoods and avoided needless disruptions.
“To avoid causing merchants, their families, and the state economy excessive suffering, the current approach should be reevaluated.
“Security and economic stability will be improved by a more transparent and balanced approach.
“The collateral economic implications of nearby market closures should always be kept in mind while working toward the goal of improved public health. -PO,” Obi maintained.
