Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State revealed plans to introduce a price control mechanism and suspend all forms of market levies during a meeting with market leaders, including Iyaloja General Mrs. Yemisi Abass, at the Governor’s Office in Abeokuta.
To address rising food prices, Abiodun announced the rebranding of the state’s Bulk Purchasing Company to the Gateway Trading Company. This initiative aims to make food items more affordable by purchasing in bulk and reselling at lower prices. The Gateway Trading Company will operate in four zones to provide better pricing for residents.
The governor also declared a ban on all illegal market levies, such as loading, discharge, and offloading taxes. Only Development and Environmental Levies, which contribute to market upkeep, will be permitted, and these will require public disclosure and agreement.
Abiodun emphasized the need to eliminate coercive practices that inflate food prices, targeting intermediaries who exploit farmers. Mrs. Abass praised the governor’s efforts to address these issues and improve conditions for the state’s residents.