A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, Bode George, has criticised the state government’s treatment of traders.
In an open letter, George described the experiences of traders in Lagos as “despicable” and “wicked” as they are constantly harassed and extorted by state officials and security agents, the Guardian reported. He noted that traders were being forced to pay multiple levies and constantly harassed by thugs.
George emphasized that trading is an integral part of Lagos’ culture and should be regulated rather than criminalized. He criticized the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps and the Central District for abusing their authority.
He urged Babajide Sanwo-Olu to address the matter, advocating for a more balanced approach that supports regulation without disrupting businesses or undermining the economic stability of local communities.