Peter Obi Urges Re-opening Of Onitsha Bridge Head Market

BY BETI ONU/AWKA

THE Presidential can­didate for Labour Party in the 2023 general elections and for­mer Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi has called for the immedi­ate reopening of subsid­iary markets affected by the recent closure of the Bridge Head Market in Onitsha, the commercial city of the State.

He stated this in a mes­sage shared on his X han­dle on yesterday.

The market was shut down by the National Agency for Food, Drug and Administration Control (NAFDAC) due to sus­pected illegal drug trading within a section known as Ogbo Ogwu.

While condemning il­licit drug activities and supporting government efforts to eradicate fake and harmful products, Obi expressed concern over the collateral impact of the closure on neighbour­ing markets. He noted that the shutdown of other sections, including rod, allied and tools, plumbing materials, timber, surgi­cal, and provision mar­kets, was 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 stated.

He also emphasised the need for a transparent search process, where store owners are present during inspections, and ac­tions are carried out in ac­cordance with due process.

When asked the ratio­nale behind extending the closure to uninvolved mar­kets, Obi stated, “If the goal is to conduct a legitimate search, why extend the closure to other markets? What are their offences?”

Reflecting on his tenure as Governor, Obi highlight­ed how similar challenges were addressed collab­oratively with regulatory agencies to ensure fairness and minimal disruption to businesses. He urged the authorities to adopt a more balanced approach to avoid unnecessary eco­nomic hardship on trad­ers, their families, and the state’s economy.

While acknowledging the importance of safe­guarding public health, Obi cautioned that the economic consequences of market closures should always be considered. “A more balanced and trans­parent approach will en­hance both security and economic stability,” he con­cluded.