Benin City, Edo State – Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has taken decisive action against the rising cost of staple foods in the state by ordering the immediate suspension of all market unions and associations. This move, announced in a release signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, on November 19, 2024, aims to curb the alleged exploitative practices of market union executives.
The governor’s decision follows reports that some market unions have been engaging in practices detrimental to the state’s residents, particularly low-income earners. According to the release, these unions have been accused of preventing farmers from selling their produce directly to consumers and arbitrarily fixing food prices, leading to an alarming surge in costs.
“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 statement read.
Governor Okpebholo described the unions’ activities as extortionist and vowed that such practices would not be allowed to persist under his administration. While acknowledging the economic contributions of market traders, he emphasized that a few individuals under the guise of union leadership would not be permitted to “hold the entire state to ransom.”
To enforce the suspension, the governor directed law enforcement agencies, including the police, to arrest any leaders of the affected unions who defy the directive. Security agents have been placed on high alert to ensure compliance.
The suspension underscores the Edo State Government’s commitment to addressing food price inflation and alleviating the financial burden on residents. By allowing farmers to sell directly to consumers, the government hopes to restore fairness to the market and provide relief to the populace.
This bold move by Governor Okpebholo is expected to set a precedent for other states grappling with similar issues of market manipulation and inflationary pressures.