Kehinde Fajobi
Chief Olabode George, former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has urged Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to take decisive action to end the growing harassment and extortion faced by traders in the state.
In an open letter to the governor, George voiced grave concern over the daily suffering of traders, who, despite their vital role in the economy, are often subjected to heavy levies and physical abuse by government officials and street thugs.
He condemned the mistreatment, stating, “I bring to your attention the suffering of countless traders in Lagos State. Lagos is known as the Centre of Excellence, yet these traders face treatment that is anything but excellent.
“Beyond paying multiple levies, they endure daily extortion from local authorities and street thugs. It is appalling that these traders, who struggle daily just to survive, are treated worse than criminals.”
George highlighted the unaffordability of market shops, which often cost over ₦1 million, leaving many traders with no choice but to sell on the streets.
“In the 21st century, it is inhumane for government officials to treat traders as though they were bandits or terrorists,” he added.
“Where is our sense of dignity? These traders are not criminals. They deserve respect as they try to make an honest living.”
The PDP stalwart called for alternative solutions to the issue of street trading, such as regulation and skill acquisition programs.
“After paying their daily dues, these traders are hounded, their wares confiscated, and they are often locked up. This triple tragedy should be addressed with compassion, not punishment.
“Many of these traders support families, including children in tertiary institutions, and the loss of their livelihood only deepens their hardship,” George lamented.
Drawing from global history, he cautioned against escalating public frustration, citing the “Arab Spring” as a reminder of the dangers of ignoring people’s struggles.
Finally, George condemned the treatment of street traders, emphasising that they deserve better treatment than being arrested and carted away like criminals.
“Street traders are respectable citizens who strive every day despite the tough times they face. It is unjust for them to be treated with disdain, while loiterers and miscreants roam freely.
“Arresting street traders en masse and shoving them into Black Maria trucks, which are meant for hardened criminals, is a disgraceful display of inhumanity in this century,” he concluded.