The Ogoga of Ikere Ekiti, Oba Adejimi Adu-Alagbado, has expressed concern over the arbitrary hike in prices of goods and services occasioned by the dictates of various traders’ associations in the community and the attendant suffering of residents.

Adu-Alagbado, therefore, announced a ban on all traders’ associations within the community, thus liberalising commercial activities in the ancient city.

According to a statement made available in Ado Ekiti on Sunday, the traditional ruler made the pronouncements at Ikere Ekiti during a meeting with the Union of Sand Quarry Suppliers at the Ogoga Palace.

“Oba Adu-Alagbado has announced the proscription of all traders’ associations within Ikere. Any association that forces individuals to become members or fix prices will face arrest and prosecution.

“From now on, all traders, whether dealing in sand, tailoring, pepper and vegetables, or any other goods are free to conduct their business anywhere in Ikere and sell their goods at any profitable price. This is not about the government; we can’t continue to see our people suffer,” the traditional ruler said.

The monarch, who stated that meetings had been held with all market leaders and traders to warn them against arbitrary price increases and gouging, called on traders and business owners to “embrace this new era of open commerce”.

He stated that the move was aimed at fostering “a more inclusive and competitive economic environment, encouraging entrepreneurship and innovation by removing mandatory association memberships to enhance individual freedom and promote a thriving economy in Ikere”.

PUNCH