With immediate effect, Governor Monday Okpebholo has suspended all Edo State market unions and associations. Monday Okpebholo, the governor of Edo State, suspended all market unions and associations in the state on Wednesday, effective immediately.
Additionally, the governor has directed the state’s police and other security forces to immediately detain the heads of the different suspended unions and associations who are in default.
The governor’s decision was communicated to reporters in Benin City, the capital of Edo State, through a communication notice issued by Secretary to State Government Umar Musa Ikhilor.
The governor said the decision was informed by the disturbing activities of market unions in the state.
According to him, there are several reports that the leaders of unions and groups either completely forbid farmers from selling their goods to customers directly at markets or unilaterally set the pricing of staple foods at the expense of the state’s low-income workers.
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 out rightly prevent farmers from disposing off their wares directly to consumers at the markets or arbitrarily fix prices of these staple food at the detriment of the 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.
“Edo State Government views this action with serious concern and considers it extortionist in nature which should not be allowed to thrive.
“While Edo State Government appreciates the role of market traders and their contribution to the economy of our dear State, it will not however serve as justification to allow a few individuals under the guise of market unions executives and for their selfish reasons, continue to hold the entire State to ransom through their selfish and extortionist activities.
“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”.
“Security agents have been put on alert, and any person or group who decides to flout this directive
would be held accountable.”
