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Traders in Onitsha are struggling with losses due to the shutdown of six major markets by security operatives for over two weeks.
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The markets were closed as part of a clampdown on fake and expired drugs dealers, but traders claim that lawful businesses are being unfairly affected.
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The closure has sparked concerns about the livelihoods of millions of people who rely on the markets for their daily income.
Traders in Onitsha are currently battling losses occasioned by the continuous shutdown of six major markets in the area by security operatives for more than two weeks now.
It was learnt that Nigerian security operatives had taken over the markets and locked up every shop under the guise of clamping down on fake and expired drugs dealers.
The affected markets include Onitsha Drug market, Oduwani (Power Tools and Allied) market, Surgical Line market, Plumbing Materials market, the Ogbogwu Fashion Line market, the Bridgehead Provision market and part of the Timber Dealers market.
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One of the traders, Micheal Okoh, expressed his frustration, saying, “They took us unaware. Some people even had cash in their drawers. There are those who solely rely on what they get daily to feed their families.”
He, however, expressed support for the government’s effort in curbing the flow of illicit drugs, saying, “I support the government’s efforts in fighting substandard and fake drugs. If there’s any illicit drugs, let them confiscate and evacuate those ones.”
Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr Peter Obi, had earlier questioned the rationale behind the continuous closure of the market. Obi expressed worry that shutting down other neighboring markets not involved, in addition to the popular drug market, seems excessive and unjustified.
Obi appealed for the immediate reopening of the market, insisting that their continued closure is severely affecting the livelihoods of millions.
He said, “The entire Head Bridge market in Onitsha has been closed by regulatory and security agencies due to suspected trading in illegal drugs within one section of the market known as Ogbo Ogwu.”
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“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, my concern and appeal are for the immediate reopening of neighbouring markets that were also collaterally affected by the closure.”
A Public Affairs Analyst and Communication Scholar at Peaceland University, Enugu, Nduka Odo, said the development raises serious concerns. Odo noted that millions of people rely on those markets for their daily income.
“I support the fight against fake drugs. It is crucial. But shutting down entire market areas seems like an overreaction,” Odo said.
Illegal Structures Demolished In Onitsha Markets
Anambra traders have reportedly demolished illegal structures and shop extensions erected on the tarred roads in Onitsha Main Market, Anambra State.
The leader of the demolition team, and Provost of the market, Mr Felix Umerah, said the exercise was carried out in compliance with the directives of the state Governor, Chukwuma Soludo.
