Adding burdens to Onitsha traders at this time is simply unjust.—Peter Obi tells NAFDAC

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

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

Obi expressed concern over the impact of such charges on small and medium-scale enterprises, pointing out that more than seven million Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises have collapsed in Nigeria in the past two years.

“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.

He explained that his support was based on the understanding that investigations would be conducted quickly and the market reopened in a timely manner to reduce the hardship on small business owners, many of whom are already struggling under Nigeria’s current economic climate.