Ogoga Proscribes Traders Association In Ikere Ekiti 

By Philip Tayo 

The Ogoga of Ikere Ekiti, in the headquarters of Ikere Local Government Area of Ekiti, Oba Adejimi Adu, has proscribed all trader’s association in his domain and community. 

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While declaring the proscription of all the Trader’s Association in Ikere Ekiti on Monday, the traditional ruler described as unacceptable the activities of the Association’s incessant fixing of prices of goods and services in the community.

Oba Adejimi said the trader’s should be allowed to fix the prices of their goods and trade without any association or coercion in the market. 

During a meeting with the trader’s in his office as well as the leader of Sand Quarry Suppliers, Ogoga explained that, the constitution guarantees freedom of Association, stressing that no individual should be mandated to join any trade group. 

Explaining further, he stressed that the complaint of the people over the hike of increase in prices of commodities, food specifically were heartbreaking, warning  that anyone found culpable will be arrested and prosecuted. 

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“Irrespective of the Association that forces individuals to join a trader’s association, or fixes price, they will be arrested and prosecuted”, the Kabiyesi declared. 

Emphasising his stand, Oba Adejimi pointed out that the proscription of the trader’s association would affect those selling sand, sowing clothes (tailors), pepper (soup ingredients), vegetables sellers and other items. 

He also directed that henceforth, traders are free to carry out their businesses anywhere in Ikere Ekiti by selling their goods at profitable and affordable prices. 

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Oba Adejimi further stated that he cannot continue to watch people die in hunger and suffer because of hike in prices of foods. 

In addition, Oba Adejimi maintained that “authorities will ensure this regulations are enforced, focusing on protecting the rights and freedom of every trader. 

“Residents are however urged to report any breaches to the palace”, Ogoga added. 

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The Royal Father also implored traders and business owners to adhere to directives and embrace the new era of open commerce in the community. 

Oba Adejimi Adu stressed that “there should be move for competitive economic environment, encouraging entrepreneurship and innovation by eliminating some association membership to enhance individual liberty and promote sustainable economy in Ikere Ekiti”, he submitted. 

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