Peter Obi, the Labour Party presidential candidate in 2023 has appealed to the Federal Government to reopen the Head Bridge Market in Onitsha, Anambra State.
Recall that the FG, through the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) sealed the market over allegations of producing fake and harmful among other vices.
In his reaction, Obi said he was in support of the closure initially but noted that the agency has failed to act swiftly, thereby inflicting pain on innocent business owners in the market.
Although the former Anambra State governor did not reveal the identities, he claimed some persons are demanding ₦700,000 from the traders to unseal their shops.
He wrote, “I recall visiting the Head Bridge Market during the initial phase of its closure, standing in support of the authorities to ensure our society is free from fake drugs and counterfeit goods.
“I did so with the hope that investigations would be carried out swiftly, and the market would be reopened promptly, especially to ease the suffering of small business owners already burdened by our current national economic challenges.
“It is, therefore, deeply unfortunate to learn that shop owners are now being asked to pay ₦700,000 to reopen their stores.”
Furthermore, Obi lamented that small business owners have been finding things difficult for the past two years and the government should not add to their woes.
He added that the government should offer Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) owners oxygen to support their breathing instead of suffocating them.
Obi continued, “This level of insensitivity is both disturbing and uncaring. Let us prioritize compassion, economic recovery, and the survival of our small businesses at this critical time in our nation.
“Surely, I am standing in support of the authorities to ensure our society is free from fake drugs and counterfeit goods. I did so with the hope that investigations would be carried out swiftly, and the market would be reopened promptly, especially to ease the suffering of small business owners already burdened by our current national economic challenges.
“I want to appeal again to the relevant authorities: please review and drop this charge. Allow these businesses to reopen.
“These shop owners have already endured prolonged closures, mounting unpaid bills, and economic strain. Adding further burdens to them and their families at this time is simply unjust and an economic sabotage.”
