Market leaders in Lagos have warned traders’ associations to refrain from imposing uniform prices on their goods and other exploitative practices.

Some market leaders, in separate interviews, responded to complaints that traders’ associations arbitrarily fix the prices of their goods and rip off those who patronise them through other exploitative practices.

Rukayat Ailero, the Iyaloja of a community market in the Ayobo area of the state, said traders’ associations are formed to protect members’ interests and not exploit their customers.

While describing arbitrary fixing of prices as dishonest, Ms Ailero said any association found compelling their members to sell at certain prices in the market would be sanctioned.

“It is wrong to say that people should sell at certain prices, most times for profiteering. Everyone should be allowed to decide what price to sell his goods, and the price has to be fair. We will not allow that. Any association found doing such will be sanctioned and reported to the appropriate authorities,” she said.

Ms Ailero urged traders, especially those who sell staples like rice, beans, and garri, to ensure their customers always get value by using standard measures to sell to them.

Taofikat Allyson, the Iyaloja of the Ikorodu market, said traders’ associations have no right to compel their members to sell at certain prices, describing the practice as unfair.

She said prices should be determined by the forces of demand and supply and the cost of buying goods.

“No association has the right to fix prices. We understand associations such as pepper grinders ask members not to go below certain prices to ensure all members get patronage. If the prices are fair, it is okay. But arbitrary pricing? No,” she explained.

Taibat Tijani, the Iyaloja General of the Agege market, also warned traders’ associations against fixing the prices of their commodities. She said customers deserve to be treated well by traders as they are the ones who sustain their businesses through patronage.

“Traders here in Agege sell their goods according to how he or she gets them from the supply source. To the best of my knowledge, no one is compelling traders to sell at high prices here at the market,” she said.

Some traders’ associations also denied fixing prices of goods and services, saying the allegation was baseless.

Wasiu Alade, the vice-chairman of the Ifelagba Butchers’ Association, Badagry, said the association had no business fixing prices. According to him, the prices at which members sell mutton, beef, or goat meat depend on the amount they buy at the Alaba Rago market.

Grace Godonu, the chairman of Itesiwaju Frozen Foods Association, Agbalata Market, Badagry, said the association does not fix prices and only helps members grow.

“If you like, you can sell your fish or chicken less so that customers can patronise your shop; at the end of the day, you will know if you have gained or run into debt,” she said.

She said members of the association meet every Sunday to deliberate on issues affecting members of the association.

(NAN)