Traders at the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex have resumed activities after shutting down the complex for one day to protest the proposed takeover of the market’s management by state and local government authorities.
JournalNG observed that normal business operations have returned to the market as traders reopened their shops and continued their daily commercial activities.
Some traders called on the Federal Government to ensure fairness in addressing issues surrounding the management of the market.
A trader, Juliet Okoro, expressed concern over the closure of the market, saying it negatively affected them.
“We can’t keep closing the market for such reason. All we want is for the Federal Government to be fair to us,” she said.
Another trader, John Chukwudi, urged the state government to channel its efforts toward other pressing issues, noting that traders already make efforts to comply with existing obligations.
“There are other important things the state government can focus on. We are doing our best to consistently pay our dues, and there are disciplinary measures in place for those who fail to comply,” he stated.
Also speaking, Ifechukwu Obi welcomed the reopening of the market but lamented the financial losses incurred during the shutdown.
“I’m glad we are back to business. I lost thousands of naira yesterday because of the shutdown. The government should consider us too. We pay a lot to bring in our goods. If the state government takes over, there will be more expenses on us. How do we make gains then?” he asked.
Traders at the complex have continued to express concerns that a potential takeover of the market’s management by the state government could lead to increased operational costs and further strain on their businesses.
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