A former governor of Anambra State and 2023 presidential candidate for the Labour Party, Peter Obi has condemned the complete closure of the Onitsha Head Bridge Market over illegal trading of drugs.
In a post made on X on Monday, February 17, Obi said there is a need for the state government to reconsider its position concerning the popular Ogbo Ogwu market which was shut down by regulatory and security agencies in the state.
While also condemning the illegal sale of drugs in the market, Obi said it is important for the government to take necessary measures needed for the eradication of fake drugs in the system.
He added that efforts should be made towards the prosecution of the perpetrators for the health and safety of society.
“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
“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,” Obi said.
He noted that the search should be done in a transparent manner where owners of shops are present and items removed in line with the provisions of tne law.
He said, “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,” the former governor said.
According to Obi, this approach prevented unnecessary disruptions and safeguarded livelihoods.
He warned that current strategy adopted by the government should be reconsidered to prevent undue hardship on traders, their families, and the state’s economy.
He said, “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,” he said.
