In a bid to alleviate the economic strain on citizens, the Osemawe of Ondo Kingdom, Oba Victor Kiladejo, has issued a directive prohibiting the coercion of traders into joining associations within the kingdom. This order, delivered through the Osemawe-in-Council, aims to lower the prices of essential commodities and services in the region.
The decision was reached during a stakeholders and youth meeting convened at the Palace Hall in Ondo town, Ondo State, on Wednesday. Resolutions adopted by the Osemawe in Council were disseminated in a statement by the Ondo Ekinmogun Youth Congress on Saturday, conveyed by Kayode Igbekoyi on behalf of the group’s president, Comrade Kayode Folajogun.
According to the statement, the resolutions include the prohibition of imposing association membership on traders, thereby declaring Ondo markets free and accessible to all legal traders. Additionally, plans to revive moribund community markets and create alternative trading spaces were outlined.
To ensure compliance, the council instructed threatened sellers to seek assistance from relevant authorities, including the Iyaloja or youth president. The Iyaloja was tasked with disseminating information regarding the market women’s resolutions as directed by the Osemawe.
Furthermore, the Osemawe-in-Council warned against fuel stations selling above-approved pump prices or imposing exorbitant charges. Stricter measures will be enforced against fuel stations found hoarding fuel or engaging in fraudulent practices.
The council also expressed concern over alleged extortion by local government officials and ordered an immediate halt to such practices. To oversee implementation, an intelligence and community task force team will be deployed.