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BREAKING: Traders lock down Lagos international trade fair complex over govt takeover plans

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Activities at the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex were halted as traders closed shops in protest against a proposed takeover of the market’s management by state and local government authorities.

The traders expressed worry over the plan, saying it could bring new levies and taxes that might hurt their businesses.

Many insisted that the complex belongs to the federal government and called for further consultations before any changes to its management are carried out.

The development led to the closure of shops across the complex, leaving hundreds of traders gathered around parks and garages within the market premises as discussions continued.

The ASPANDA Market within the complex—one of the largest spare parts markets in Lagos—was among the sections affected by the shutdown.

Eyewitnesses said traders began the protest early in the morning by locking up their shops and stalls to draw attention to their concerns over the proposed changes.

“We are not against development, but we are concerned about the possible levies and taxes that may be introduced if the management structure changes,” a trader who identified himself as Emeka Onu said.

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole, visited the market during the day as part of efforts to engage with traders and encourage the reopening of the complex.

Before commencing her tour of the market, the minister urged that the gates of the complex be opened to traders, stating that her visit was aimed at interacting with stakeholders and supporting the smooth conduct of business activities.

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Pearl Essien is a digital content creator and a graduate of the prestigious University of Calabar. With over four years of experience in writing, she specializes in crafting engaging stories that inform and inspire readers. Outside of her work, Pearl enjoys storytelling, reading, and playing table tennis, bringing the same curiosity and passion to her hobbies as she does to her writing.

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