Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in 2023, has condemned the complete shutdown of the entire Head Bridge Market, Onitsha, Anambra State, over illicit drugs.

“The entire Head Bridge Market in Onitsha has been closed by regulatory and security agencies due to suspected trading in illegal drugs within one section of the market known as Ogbo Ogwu,” said Mr Obi, a former governor of Anambra.

Mr Obi, on X on Monday, condemned illicit drug trading but insisted that other businesses within the entire and neighbouring markets should not be affected.

“While one unequivocally condemns such illicit drug trading activities and urges the government to take all necessary measures to eradicate the sale of fake items—especially drugs—and legally prosecute the perpetrators for the health and safety of society, my concern and appeal are for the immediate reopening of neighbouring markets that were also collaterally affected by the closure,” Mr Obi said.

According to the former governor, shutting down neighbouring markets like rod, allied and tools, plumbing materials, timber, surgical, and provision markets seems excessive and unjustified.

“I, therefore, appeal for their immediate reopening, as their continued closure is severely affecting the livelihoods of millions, especially during this difficult period in our country.

“Furthermore, the search should be conducted transparently, with store owners present while their shops are inspected and items removed by the law and due process. If the goal is to conduct a legitimate search, why extend the closure to other markets? What are their offences?” Mr Obi said.

Mr Obi’s statement comes a few days after the National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) raided the popular Onitsha market, confiscating a cache of illicit drugs and shutting down the market.

In recent times, the NADFAC has raided markets in Lagos, Aba and Anambra in the fight against illicit drug business operators.