Chief Camilus Amajuoyi, the president general of Alaba International Market Ojo Lagos, has declared that the market’s participants will not take part in the next nationwide protests.
He clarified that this choice was made because he thinks that large protests might not be the best course of action at this moment.
Amajuoyi underlined that a large number of market traders depend on their daily income and cannot afford to stop operating their businesses.
He emphasised that the increasing cost of doing business has had a significant impact on the informal sector, which is made up of many market participants, and that there are no government incentives, palliative measures, or interest-free loans available to ease their hardships.
Nonetheless, he conveyed his belief in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s capacity to tackle the urgent problems facing the country.
“The shifting currency rates and high prices of tariffs at national ports, combined with rising transportation costs, have made it practically impossible for business owners to plan efficiently.
These factors have all contributed to a dramatic increase in the cost of products and services across the country.
“These are the realities that Nigerians face from the north, east, west, and south of the country.
nevertheless, we the members of Alaba International Market, categorically announce that we will not participate in any planned protest in Nigeria, nor will we close our market in solidarity with any group or person involved in any protest.“We think President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will undoubtedly find a long-term solution to the many problems that Nigerians are currently facing, including transportation, poor roads, corruption, high food and drug prices, and insecurity,” Amajuoyi stated.
Amajuoyi laments on the dangerous condition of the one access road to Alaba International Market, which has resulted in multiple incidents involving large vehicles.
He urged the Lagos State administration to give the maintenance of this vital route top priority and concentrate on other initiatives that could considerably lessen the suffering of the general populace.
Additionally, he issued a warning to prospective protestors to avoid Alaba International Market in order to stop any looting or damage to property.
He urged the DSS, the Nigerian police, the military, the Lagos State administration, and other security organisations to make sure that all marketplaces are safe from vandalism.
Bottom Line
The warning against protests near the market and the call for security agencies to protect against vandalism reflect a desire to maintain stability and prevent any disruptions that could harm businesses.
The fear of looting or property damage during protests is a legitimate concern for traders who have invested in their businesses.
The concerns are valid but Nigerians are crying for help and our voice needs to be heard.
