Peter Obi has criticized NAFDAC’s alleged N700,000 fee for Onitsha Head Bridge Market shop owners to reopen after closure, calling it “insensitive” and “economic sabotage” given the struggles of MSMEs

[dropcap]F[/dropcap]ormer Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has strongly condemned the alleged demand of N700,000 from shop owners at the Onitsha Head Bridge Market by authorities for their stores to be reopened.

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The market had been previously shut down as part of efforts to combat fake drugs and counterfeit goods.

In a statement released on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, Obi expressed his dismay, recalling his earlier support for the market’s closure, which was based on the hope of swift investigations and a prompt reopening to alleviate the suffering of small business owners.

“It is, therefore, deeply unfortunate to learn that shop owners are now being asked to pay ₦700,000 to reopen their stores,” Obi stated.

He highlighted the dire economic situation facing Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Nigeria, noting that “over 7 million MSMEs have collapsed in the past two years.”

Adding further burdens to them and their families at this time is simply unjust and an economic sabotage. Compassion must lie at the root of government action.

Obi asserted that Nigerian MSMEs are at a “we can’t breathe” stage, and that demanding such a fee amounts to “suffocating them” rather than offering support.

He labeled this level of insensitivity as “disturbing and uncaring,” urging authorities to prioritize compassion, economic recovery, and the survival of small businesses.

Reiterating his commitment to ensuring a society free from fake drugs and counterfeit goods, Obi appealed directly to the relevant authorities: “Please review and drop this charge. Allow these businesses to reopen.”

He underscored the immense hardship already faced by these shop owners, who have endured prolonged closures, mounting unpaid bills, and significant economic strain.

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Obi concluded by emphasizing, “Adding further burdens to them and their families at this time is simply unjust and an economic sabotage. Compassion must lie at the root of government action.”