Peter Obi, former Anambra State governor and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has criticised the total shutdown of Onitsha’s Head Bridge Market due to illicit drug sales.
He has urged the state government to reconsider its stance, arguing that the closure is causing unnecessary hardship for innocent traders.
In a post on X, Obi acknowledged the need to combat illegal drug trading but questioned the decision to extend the closure beyond the affected section, Ogbo Ogwu Market.
He pointed out that other markets, such as Rod, Allied and Tools, Plumbing Materials, Timber, Surgical, and Provision Markets, had been unfairly affected.
“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 neighbouring 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,” he said.
Obi recalled dealing with similar public health threats during his tenure as governor, explaining that his administration worked closely with security and regulatory agencies to resolve such issues without causing undue suffering. He stressed that searches should be conducted transparently, with shop owners present, to ensure fairness and prevent unnecessary economic disruption.
“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,” he said.
He urged the government to adopt a more balanced approach, ensuring security and public health while safeguarding the livelihoods of traders.
“The current strategy should be reconsidered to prevent undue hardship on traders, their families, and the state’s economy.
“A more balanced and transparent approach will enhance both security and economic stability.
“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,” he said.
