Aimed at addressing the soaring cost of foodstuffs in Edo State, Governor Monday Okpebholo has announced the immediate suspension of all market unions and associations across the state.

The decision follows growing concerns over the harmful activities of these market unions, which have been accused of exploiting consumers and driving up food prices in the region.

Governor Okpebholo, in his statement, expressed deep concern over the actions of these unions, which he said were preventing farmers from directly selling their goods to consumers at the market.

Additionally, he pointed out that the unions were arbitrarily fixing prices for staple foods, ultimately making life more difficult for low-income residents in Edo State.

These practices have reportedly led to a sharp increase in the prices of essential commodities, putting a strain on families who are already struggling with the rising cost of living.

The suspension was officially communicated to the public in a statement from Fred Itua, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, on Wednesday.

The statement also included a stern warning to those involved in such activities.

Governor Okpebholo ordered the police and other law enforcement agencies in the state to take immediate action against the leaders of the suspended unions and associations.

Anyone found violating the directive will face swift legal consequences.

According to the Governor’s office, the suspension of these market unions and associations is part of a broader effort to protect the interests of consumers and ensure fair pricing in the state.

The Governor stressed that while the state acknowledges the vital role market traders play in the economy, it cannot allow a small group of union executives to hold the entire state hostage with extortionate practices.

The government described the actions of these unions as “extortionist” and vowed to take steps to put an end to them.

This change is due to several public calls for the government to intervene in the activities of the market unions.

One call came from the Coalition of Registered Political Parties (CRPP) in Edo State, which urged the Governor to take stronger actions to regulate the unions.

The CRPP had pointed out that the unchecked activities of market unions were contributing to the skyrocketing prices of foodstuffs, further burdening residents who were already struggling with the high cost of living.

Samson Isibor, the state chairman of CRPP, emphasized that the Governor’s focus should also include addressing the rising insecurity in the state, which has made it increasingly difficult for farmers to safely access their farmlands.

This, according to Isibor, has contributed to the scarcity of produce and, consequently, the inflated prices of food.