Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
The Labour Party Presidential Candidate in the 2023 general election and former governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, has called for the immediate reopening of markets that were affected by the closure of the Head Bridge Market in Onitsha.
The market was shut down by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, a regulatory and security agency, due to alleged trading in illegal drugs within a section known as Ogbo Ogwu.
While condemning the sale of illicit drugs, Obi, in a statement on Monday via X, emphasised the need for fairness in the enforcement of the law.
Obi said there was no justification for shutting down of such markets.
“Shutting down other neighboring markets not involved in addition to the Ogbo Ogwu Market such as Rod, Allied and Tools, Plumbing Materials, Timber, Surgical, and Provision Markets seems excessive and unjustified.”
He therefore appealed for the immediate reopening of neighbouring markets that were also collaterally affected by the closure.
“While one unequivocally condemns such illicit drug trading activities and urges the government to take all necessary measures to eradicate the sale of fake items—especially drugs—and legally prosecute the perpetrators for the health and safety of society,
“I therefore appeal for their immediate reopening, as their continued closure is severely affecting the livelihoods of millions, especially during this difficult period in our country.
“Furthermore, the search should be conducted transparently, with store owners present while their shops are inspected and items removed by the law and due process.
“If the goal is to conduct a legitimate search, why extend the closure to other markets? What are their offences?
“During my tenure as Governor of Anambra State, we faced similar situations multiple times.
“Whenever we encountered public health threats, we addressed them collaboratively and methodically with the relevant agencies. In cases requiring market interventions, we worked closely with regulatory authorities and security agencies, ensuring fairness and due process.
“This approach prevented unnecessary disruptions and safeguarded livelihoods.
“The current strategy should be reconsidered to prevent undue hardship on traders, their families, and the state’s economy.
“A more balanced and transparent approach will enhance both security and economic stability.
“While pursuing the end of enhanced public health, we should not lose sight of the collateral economic effects of adjacent market closures should be kept in view always,” Obi said.
