The President candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, has described the closing of Bridge Market as excessive and unjustified.
Obi in a statement issued Monday, the fire, demanded immediate reopening of the market.
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.
“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.
“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 added that the current strategy should be reconsidered to prevent undue hardship on traders, their families, and the state’s economy.
He was of the opinion that a more balanced and transparent approach will enhance both security and economic stability.
Obi added: “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.
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.”