Lagos: Trade Fair Complex Shut As Traders Resist State, LG Takeover

Traders have shut down the Trade Fair Complex in Lagos state traders over the alleged planned takeover of the market by the state and local government authorities.

The traders claim the complex is a federal property and that the state government has no right to take it over.

The customers are reportedly concerned about the proposed levies and taxes that would be imposed on them in the event that the complex is handed over to the Local Government.

Presently, the Minister of Trade and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole, is visiting the market to address the traders.

The situation remains unresolved, with the complex remaining shut.

Hundreds of traders were seen loitering around the parks and garages within the complex.

The ASPAMDA market in the Complex is one of the largest spare parts markets in the state.

The traders began the protest early in the morning, locking up their shops and stalls to express their dissatisfaction with the planned takeover.

“We are not against development, but we cannot afford to pay the kind of levies and taxes that the state government is proposing,” one of the traders who identified himself as Emeka Onu said.

As at the time of filing this report, the complex remained shut, with the traders vowing to continue their protest until their demands were met. (NAN)