Mr. Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has strongly criticized the decision by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to impose a ₦700,000 fee on traders at the Onitsha Head Bridge Market as a condition for reopening their shops. In a statement posted on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, Obi described the move as both “unjust” and “insensitive,” particularly given the current economic hardships faced by small business owners in Nigeria.

Obi expressed deep concern over the ongoing closure of the market, noting that many traders have been struggling with prolonged disruptions to their livelihoods. He recalled personally visiting the Head Bridge Market during the initial shutdown to show his support for efforts aimed at eliminating counterfeit drugs and illegal products. However, he had hoped that investigations would be concluded quickly and the market would be reopened to relieve the economic pressure on small traders.

He described it as deeply unfortunate that, instead of receiving support, these traders are now being asked to pay a hefty sum to regain access to their shops. Highlighting the broader economic context, Obi pointed out that more than 7 million Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) have shut down in the past two years. According to him, small businesses are suffocating under Nigeria’s economic pressures, and imposing such fees only worsens the crisis.

Calling the imposed charge an act of “economic sabotage,” Obi urged NAFDAC and the relevant authorities to reconsider and cancel the fee, stressing that these traders have already endured enough financial hardship due to the extended closure of their shops. He argued that instead of adding more burdens, the government should focus on supporting MSMEs, which form the backbone of Nigeria’s economy.

While reiterating his support for combating counterfeit goods, Obi maintained that enforcement actions must be balanced with compassion and an understanding of economic realities. He concluded by urging policymakers to prioritize the survival and revival of small businesses in all regulatory decisions, as they are essential to national growth and development.