BENIN CITY – THE governor of Edo State, Sen. Monday Okpebholo has suspended all Market Unions and Associations in Edo State with immediate effect.

The Governor has also ordered the Police and other security agencies in the State to arrest defaulting leaders of the various suspended Unions and Associations without any delay.

The decision of the Governor was contained in a communication notice issued by the Secretary to State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, and dated 19th November 2024.

A statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua quoted the governor as saying that the decision was informed by the disturbing activities of market inions in the State.

He said reports abound that the executives of the unions and associations either outrightly prevent farmers from disposing off their wares directly to consumers at the markets or arbitrarily fix prices of staple food at the detriment of the low income earners in the State.

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.

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“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.”