Market associations seek people- oriented legislation from Lagos Govt

Over 40 Markets and Trade Associations are urging the Lagos state House of Assembly to come up with legislations that would support Lagosians to progress in their respective areas of endeavours. The groups under the aegis of Market Leaders and Traders Association of Nigeria, Lagos state, made this call at a press briefing following the recent demolition of furniture section of Alaba International Market by the Lagos Building and Control Agency amid altercations between Yorubas and other ethnic nationalities. 

Speaking on the development, president of the Groups, Chris Okpala, told journalists that they were not unaware of the statements made by Speaker of Lagos House of Assembly (LHoA) to enact anti- none – indigenous people laws which has triggered uproar, howbeit they would resist such anti people legislations.

On the demolition (which he alleged was instigated by sentiments), he challenged the state governor to compensate victims adequately if he (governor) still claims he was not aware of the demolition of the section of Alaba International Market.

“We are watching all these ill treatments, but I can assure you that our silence is not a weakness. I don’t understand the meaning of ‘Commerce Bill’ and others emanating from LHoA. But we’re working with some legal luminaries to propose new bills and amends existing laws that are not favorable to business men and women. The multiple taxation is becoming unbecoming.” 

Okpala who applauded the Peace Committee set up by Sanwo- Olu and his Imo counterparts, urged Igbos to think home by way of investment to balance the economic disequilibrium. He added that they would embark on reconciliation excercise to mend broken walls for peace and progress to prevail. “This exercise would involve traditional leaders, chairmen of LGDAs, religious leaders, all indigenous and none – indigenous tribes even the ‘areas boys’ 

“Lagos belongs to everyone. Some of us are indigene by birth, nationality and other forms. We refused to be targets of thuggery and unprovoked destruction. We are not politicians, every paid and violence non – state actors should leave us alone. We’re for Peace” he assured.