The Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, has condemned the reported N700,000 charge imposed on traders at the Onitsha Head Bridge Market in Anambra State, calling for an immediate review and reversal of the decision.
In a post on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Tuesday, Obi appealed to relevant authorities to prioritize economic recovery and show compassion to the affected business owners.
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) had earlier designated the market as a major hub for the distribution of substandard and counterfeit drugs in Nigeria and parts of Africa. In April, the agency announced the reopening of the market but mandated traders to meet stringent conditions before regaining access to their shops.
Obi had previously questioned the prolonged closure of the market and criticized the inclusion of neighboring markets not directly involved in the alleged violations. He described the move as excessive and unjust.
“The shop owners at the Head Bridge Market have already endured months of closure, mounting debts, and significant economic hardship. Imposing a N700,000 fee for reopening their shops only worsens their plight and amounts to economic sabotage,” Obi stated.
He recalled visiting the market at the onset of its closure to support the campaign against fake and substandard pharmaceuticals, expressing hope that investigations would be swift and the market reopened promptly to reduce the burden on small business owners.
“It is deeply troubling that instead of receiving support, these traders are now being suffocated by unbearable financial demands. Over 7 million Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) have shut down in the last two years. These businesses are struggling to survive, yet the very system that should be supporting them is adding to their suffering,” he said.
Obi emphasized the need for authorities to act with sensitivity and a sense of responsibility, urging a focus on economic relief and the survival of MSMEs.
“Government actions must be rooted in compassion. Supporting the fight against counterfeit drugs should not come at the cost of crushing legitimate businesses,” he added.
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