In view of the ongoing nationwide protest, traders in the Masaka area of Nasarawa have deserted their daily businesses as hoodlums barricaded the popular market.

Shops were under lock and key as few vehicles and persons moved around.

Some residents said traders had prevented entry into the market for fear of violence due to the protest. They explained that those who came out could not trade and, as such, took their goods home.

Rose Sheriff said she came out to buy a phone charger but was disappointed that shops were not open for business.

”Today is the first day of the protest, and we are facing this challenge. How do we buy petty stuff for the family when no one is out to sell?” she said.

Another resident, Tochuckwu Martins, expressed his view that if the situation continued, it would escalate the already economic situation while also affecting the country’s gross domestic product (GDP).

Also, a roadside mechanic, Abdulrasheed Isiaka, expressed worry over poor business experienced due to the ongoing protest.

Mr Isiaka said that the poor masses living on daily income would be affected as commercial activities were put on hold.

(NAN)