Traders at Sapele Main Market Protest New Local Govt Order

Traders at Sapele Main Market have raised alarm over a new directive issued by the local government, which compels them to conduct business strictly within their stores. The move, they argue, threatens their livelihoods, particularly as many vendors rely on the space outside their shops to display their goods.

The traders, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, describe the decision by local government Chairman, Hon. Bright Abeke, as “ill-timed” and “impractical.” Many of the market’s vendors share small, overcrowded stores that cannot accommodate all their products, particularly perishable items like tomatoes and pepper.

“We are not against trading inside our stores,” one trader explained. “But the shops are too small to fit everything we need to display. How can we keep fresh produce like tomatoes inside? It will spoil, and we will lose our investment.”

For many traders, the outdoor spaces are vital for the survival of their businesses. “We do not have stores of our own,” said another market vendor. “We depend on the space outside to display our goods. This is how we feed our families. This order feels like a death sentence.”

The traders have appealed to Chairman Abeke to reconsider the policy and allow them to continue trading in front of their stores. They have also called on Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to intervene, urging him to protect their livelihoods and prevent further economic hardship.

“We borrowed money to start our businesses, and we have to pay it back with interest,” one trader added. “If this policy stays in place, we will lose everything. We hope the Governor will come to our aid.”

The local government has yet to comment.