Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has announced a ban on all forms of illegal levy collections in markets across the state. In a move aimed at easing the burden on citizens, the governor also revealed plans for the state government to engage in bulk purchasing of goods, which will be sold at lower prices to residents.
During a meeting with market leaders, including the Iyaloja General, Yemisi Abass, at the Governor’s Office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Abiodun expressed his concern over the unfair practices faced by farmers. He noted that many are being coerced by market associations and touts to sell their produce at prices that are not favorable to them.
Governor Abiodun clarified that only two types of levies would now be allowed in the markets: the Development Levy and the Environmental Levy, both of which will be determined and made public by the government.
“We’ve decided to implement the Bulk Purchase and Selling initiative across Ogun State,” the governor stated. “Our rebranded Gateway Trading Board will help provide food items at significantly lower prices for our citizens. This initiative will kick off in the state’s four zones, allowing for bulk buying and selling at affordable prices.”
He also addressed the issue of illegal taxes, such as loading, discharge, and offloading fees, which have been imposed on traders. “These illegal levies will no longer be tolerated in any market in Ogun State,” Abiodun declared.
To ensure compliance, the governor announced the formation of a market enforcement task force at both the state and local government levels. The task force will oversee and prevent any form of illegal levies, coercion, or intimidation of farmers and traders.
Governor Abiodun further criticized the high transportation costs imposed on farmers. “We’ve heard situations where a basket of tomatoes, costing ₦3,500, is being charged ₦7,000 for transportation. This kind of exploitation will no longer be accepted in Ogun State. We are determined to make this period as manageable as possible for everyone.”
The governor also promised to tackle illegal roadblocks and toll collection points, emphasizing that anyone caught engaging in these activities would face strict penalties.
In response to concerns raised by traders about excessive rents charged by developers in some local government areas, Abiodun assured that his government would intervene to ensure that such practices are halted.
In addition to these measures, the governor announced that his administration would support market traders with low-interest loans to boost their businesses. “Through the Ogun Empowerment Scheme, we are finalizing plans to offer single-digit loans or grants, especially to market women and men in the informal sector,” he concluded.
