Food Security: Ogun to Introduce Price Control, Ban Levies in Markets

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has announced plans to introduce a price control mechanism in the state’s markets as part of his administration’s efforts to tackle rising food prices. In a significant move aimed at easing the burden on residents, the governor also declared a ban on all forms of market levies, except for development and environmental levies intended for market improvement.

During a meeting with market leaders, led by Chief (Mrs.) Yemisi Abass, the Iyaloja General, at the Governor’s Office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Governor Abiodun outlined measures to regulate the cost of essential commodities and protect market traders from illegal charges.

In a key part of the plan, the state will rebrand and operationalize the Gateway Trading Company, formerly known as the Bulk Purchasing Company. This entity will oversee the bulk purchase and sale of food items at more affordable prices, particularly benefiting the public by offering goods at reduced rates compared to what they would typically encounter in local markets. The initiative will initially cover the four zones of the state.

“We’ve resolved to commence the implementation of bulk purchasing and selling across the state,” Governor Abiodun stated. “Gateway Trading Company will help bring food items to our people at prices far below what they would ordinarily find in the market.”

In addition to price controls, the governor declared a ban on all unauthorized market levies, such as loading, offloading, and discharge taxes, which have previously inflated the cost of goods. He emphasized that only development and environmental levies will be permitted, ensuring that any fees collected will directly benefit the upkeep and advancement of market infrastructure.

Governor Abiodun further announced the formation of a market enforcement task force that will operate centrally at the state level and be mirrored in all 20 local government areas. This task force will be responsible for curbing illegal levies, coercion, and intimidation in the markets, with violators facing legal consequences.

“We will not tolerate illegal levies or any form of coercion in our markets,” he stated. “Anyone caught collecting unlawful fees will face the full weight of the law, and exorbitant shop and stall rents imposed on traders will also be addressed.”

The governor also urged market stakeholders to be considerate and support the state’s efforts to stabilize the economy, especially during this challenging transition period, highlighting examples of exploitative pricing in transportation costs that disproportionately burden farmers and traders.

The introduction of these measures marks a significant step towards ensuring food security and reducing inflation in Ogun State, as Governor Abiodun continues to prioritize the welfare of residents through targeted economic reforms.