‘Undesirable exploitation’ — Ondo bars unions, associations from fixing prices of goods, services

The Ondo state government has barred trading unions and associations under the umbrella of Ondo State United Artisan Group from fixing and enforcing uniform prices of goods and services.

The state government said the measure was adopted to protect residents from “undesirable exploitation”.

Donald Ojogo, the Ondo commissioner for information and orientation, lamented the rising costs and “incessant” increases in prices of goods and services by artisans.

In a statement issued on Thursday, he said the decision was taken in the socio-economic interest of the state’s residents.

The statement reads: “Government had before now, watched with discomfort and dismay, the economic suffocation of the people with unimaginable increases in prices of goods and services in markets, shops and other sales outlets across the state.

“Even without due regard for market forces, it is obvious that associations and unions are largely behind this unwholesome act.

“The state government has decided to act decisively even as the public deserves protection from this undesirable exploitation under some guises.

“Therefore, fixing market prices and imposing fixed exorbitant prices on the people under the guise of association or union must be stopped forthwith.

“Accordingly, as part of the measures, Individuals, Artisans, Traders and providers of services as well as farmers are henceforth allowed to operate, sell their produce and render any service in any part of the state as they may deem profitable, based on the principle of demand and supply and prevailing market forces. This is just as membership of associations and unions remains voluntary as provided for in the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended.

“Consequently, Government’s right to regulate the activities of Trading Associations and Artisan groups has to be invoked in the interest of residents.”

The commissioner said “on no account” should any union or association fix or enforce prices of goods and services.

He said the directive takes effect from Thursday in all markets and sales outlets across the 18 LGAs of the state.