Peter Obi Urges Reopening of Markets Affected by Head Bridge Closure in Onitsha

Babatunji Wusu –

• Peter Obi calls for the immediate reopening of markets affected by the closure of the Head Bridge Market in Onitsha.
• He condemns illegal drug trading but decries the excessive closure of nearby markets not involved in illicit activities.
• Obi emphasizes fairness, transparency in inspections, and the need for a balanced approach to address public health and economic concerns.
• He appeals to the state government to prevent further economic hardship on traders.

Peter Obi, former Governor of Anambra State, has called for the immediate reopening of markets that were inadvertently affected by the closure of the Head Bridge Market in Onitsha. The market was shut down by regulatory and security agencies due to allegations of illegal drug trading within a section known as Ogbo Ogwu.

While Obi unequivocally condemned the sale of illicit drugs, he stressed the importance of fairness in law enforcement. He urged the government to take necessary measures to eliminate the trade of fake items, particularly drugs, and prosecute those responsible to safeguard public health and safety.

However, Obi expressed concern over the closure of other neighbouring markets, which were not involved in the illicit activities. These included the Rod, Allied and Tools, Plumbing Materials, Timber, Surgical, and Provision Markets. He described these closures as excessive and unjustified, noting the severe economic hardship being faced by traders and their families.

In his statement, Obi called for transparency in the process of searching shops, advocating that store owners be present during inspections and the removal of items to ensure due process is followed.

Reflecting on his tenure as governor, Obi recalled his collaborative and methodical approach to addressing public health issues, ensuring fairness and due process in similar situations. He urged the state government to reconsider its current strategy to avoid further hardship on traders and to protect the state’s economy, suggesting that a balanced approach would help enhance both security and economic stability.