In a renewed appeal on his X account, former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has intensified his criticism of what he calls “economic sabotage” resulting from the recent blanket closure of Onitsha markets. The shutdown—initially aimed at curbing illegal drug trading in the Ogbo Ogwu section of the Head Bridge Market—has now extended to several neighboring markets dealing in non-drug commodities, a move Obi deems both excessive and economically destructive.
Regulatory and security agencies closed the Head Bridge Market after uncovering suspected illicit drug trading in a specific section. However, neighboring markets—ranging from Rod, Allied and Tools, Plumbing Materials, Timber, Surgical, to Provision Markets—were also forcibly shut down despite having no direct involvement in the illegal activities. This decision, intended as part of broader enforcement measures, has ignited widespread concern among traders whose daily livelihoods now hang in the balance.
In his pointed message, Obi acknowledged the need to combat the sale of fake and harmful products but questioned the rationale behind extending the closure to all Onitsha markets not implicated in the drug trade. He argued: “If the goal is to conduct a legitimate search, why extend the closure to other markets? What are their offences?” He contends that such indiscriminate measures only serve to stifle the very engine of Nigeria’s economy—its small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Drawing on his extensive experience as Governor, Obi recalled how collaborative, targeted interventions during his tenure safeguarded both public health and the economic well-being of traders.
Obi also contrasted Nigeria’s approach with that of Indonesia, where MSMEs account for over 90% of employment and enjoy robust governmental support, including easier access to funding alongside strict law enforcement against genuine offenders. His comparison underscores his broader argument: that governance disconnected from practical business realities is a key contributor to the country’s economic stagnation.
The former governor’s statement has elicited mixed reactions. While many small business owners and economic reform advocates have welcomed his call for a reopening of unaffected markets, others express concern that any relaxation of enforcement might embolden criminal elements. Nonetheless, Obi remains adamant that the collateral damage inflicted on millions of traders—already struggling amid challenging economic conditions—must be reversed immediately.
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He warned that prolonged closures could lead to significant losses, particularly for businesses dealing in perishable goods, thereby deepening the nation’s economic woes. “A one-month closure will cripple many of them,” Obi stressed, framing the issue as not merely about law enforcement, but about preserving the livelihoods of everyday Nigerians.
Beyond reopening the markets, Obi has urged authorities to conduct any future inspections with greater transparency. He called for shop owners to be present during searches to ensure that due process is followed—a move he believes would restore trust between regulatory bodies and the business community.
Concluding his appeal with the optimistic note, “A new Nigeria is very Possible,” Obi’s remarks not only challenge current policies but also signal his broader vision for a more inclusive and productive national economy.
