Peter Obi Condemns ₦700,000 Reopening Fee Imposed on Anambra Traders

Former Anambra State Governor, Mr. Peter Obi, has condemned the reported demand of ₦700,000 from traders to reopen their shops at the Onitsha Head Bridge Market, describing the fee as “insensitive” and urging authorities to reconsider the charge.

In a statement released on Tuesday via X, Obi recalled his earlier visit to the market during its initial closure phase, highlighting his solidarity with regulatory bodies, including the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, in their efforts to eliminate fake drugs and counterfeit goods from the market.

“I recall visiting the Head Bridge Market during the initial phase of its closure, standing in support of the authorities to ensure our society is free from fake drugs and counterfeit goods,” Obi stated.

Obi explained that his support was predicated on the belief that investigations would be conducted swiftly, and the market would be reopened in a timely manner to minimize the hardship on small business owners, many of whom are already grappling with the challenges posed by Nigeria’s current economic climate.

“It is, therefore, deeply unfortunate to learn that shop owners are now being asked to pay ₦700,000 to reopen their stores,” he said.

Obi expressed concern over the impact of such charges on small and medium-scale enterprises, noting that over seven million Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) have collapsed in Nigeria within the past two years.

“Our MSME’s businesses are at a ‘we can’t breathe’ stage, and the very system that should be offering them oxygen to support their breathing is instead suffocating them,” he said.

He described the demand for such payment as a form of “economic sabotage” and urged relevant authorities to reconsider the decision in the interest of justice and economic recovery.

“These shop owners have already endured prolonged closures, mounting unpaid bills, and economic strain. Adding further burdens to them and their families at this time is simply unjust,” Obi added.

Reiterating his earlier position, the former presidential candidate said, “Let us prioritise compassion, economic recovery, and the survival of our small businesses at this critical time in our nation.”

He appealed to the authorities once more, saying, “Please review and drop this charge. Allow these businesses to reopen. Compassion must lie at the root of government action.”