The Executive Chairman of Isoko North Local Council in Delta State, Prince Godwin Ogorugba, has taken a bold step to address the rising cost of living in the area. Following persistent complaints from residents about arbitrary price hikes for foodstuffs, apartment rentals, motorbike fares, and other essentials, Ogorugba has banned market unions, citing their exploitative practices.
The decision was announced during a meeting with traders from Ozoro at the Isoko North Council Chamber. Ogorugba expressed concern over the increasing cost of goods and rents, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to curbing exploitation.
“We will be sending an executive bill to the legislative arm to block every form of exploitation of traders,” Ogorugba said. “The practice of demanding union fees before allowing businesses to operate must stop. This will ensure free trading.”
As part of efforts to eliminate third-party interference, the council has also revoked the practice of locking up shops in markets. Instead, shops will be handed directly to traders, preventing individuals with no legitimate business in the market from securing spaces through connections and leasing them out.
Ogorugba assured traders that his administration is committed to addressing their concerns and improving living conditions for the people of Isoko North. He highlighted how the actions of multiple unions, landlords, and agents have contributed to the rising cost of living in Ozoro, making essential services increasingly unaffordable.
The President-General of the Ozoro Progressive Union (OPU), Odio Berkley Eloviano Asiafa, backed Ogorugba’s decision, noting that previous attempts to ban unions had been met with resistance. Asiafa revealed that the OPU had previously taken action against the Tomatoes and Pepper Sellers Association, arresting their leaders and securing damages for a lady forced out of the market.
Asiafa also disclosed plans for a meeting with commercial motorbike operators in February to address the high cost of transportation in the community. He called for collective efforts to address the issues, saying, “The council chairman and OPU can not do it alone. We need all hands on deck. These traders in the market are our mothers, sisters, daughters, and wives.”
The Vice Chancellor of Southern Delta University, Ozoro, Prof Jacob Snapps Oboreh, has also expressed concern about the high cost of hostel accommodation and has promised to take action to ease the financial burden on students.
