Commercial activities were disrupted on Wednesday at the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex as traders shut down the facility to protest an alleged plan by state and local government authorities to take over its management.
Hundreds of traders locked their shops and suspended business operations across the complex, gathering in clusters around parking areas and other open spaces while discussions continued among stakeholders.
The shutdown also affected activities at the Auto Spare Parts and Machinery Dealers Association (ASPANDA) market, one of the largest spare parts trading hubs in Lagos located within the trade fair complex.
Traders said the protest began early in the morning as market operators closed their stalls to draw attention to concerns over the proposed management arrangement.
Many of the protesters maintained that the complex is owned by the federal government and insisted that any attempt to alter its management structure should involve broader consultations with traders and other stakeholders.
They also expressed fears that the proposed move could lead to the introduction of additional taxes and levies that may further strain businesses already grappling with economic challenges.
One of the traders, Emeka Onu, said the traders were not opposed to development but were worried about the potential financial implications of the proposed changes.
“We are not against development of the complex, but we are concerned about the possibility of new taxes and levies that could negatively affect our businesses,” he said.
Amid the protest, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole, visited the complex to meet with traders and appeal for calm.
Before commencing her engagement with the market leaders, the minister requested that the gates of the complex be reopened, explaining that her visit was aimed at engaging stakeholders and restoring normal business activities.
Efforts are expected to continue between government representatives and traders to address the concerns raised and bring commercial operations at the complex back to normal.
