Former Anambra State Governor and 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has expressed concern over the recent closure of markets in Nigeria due to alleged illegal activities.
In a statement on his verified X handle, Obi emphasized the importance of protecting small businesses, which he described as a vital component of the country’s economy.
Obi criticized the government’s approach to market enforcement, arguing that it often leads to the closure of entire markets, thereby crippling small businesses that depend on daily profits to survive. He noted that such actions have huge implications for businesses, particularly those with short shelf-life goods.
The former governor recalled his tenure in Anambra State, where he took proactive steps to support small businesses, including securing special loans for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through a partnership with the Bank of Industry. He also facilitated the establishment of a Bank of Industry branch in Anambra to enhance access to funding.
Obi lamented the lack of understanding about MSMEs among those in leadership positions, which often leads to policies that stifle economic growth rather than support it. He emphasized the need for the government to reconsider its approach to market enforcement and differentiate between businesses that engage in illegal activities and those that do not.
The former governor urged law enforcement agencies to conduct searches with transparency and fairness, recommending that shop owners be present before any searches are conducted on their premises. He also called on the government to provide committed support to MSMEs, citing the example of Indonesia, where MSMEs provide over 90% of employment.
In his statement, Obi also recounted his approach to addressing security concerns tied to small-scale entrepreneurs, such as motorcycle riders. He noted that instead of banning their operations, he intensified efforts to enhance their operations, creating an environment where small businesses could thrive.
