Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has announced plans to introduce a price control mechanism in the state to curb the rise in food prices.
He made this known during a meeting with market leaders, led by the Iyaloja General, Mrs Yemisi Abass, at the Governor’s Office in Abeokuta.
“We have also resolved to begin the implementation of bulk purchasing and selling in the state. To that end, the state government has rebranded our Bulk Purchase Company, now known as Gateway Trading Board.
“Gateway Trading will assist in providing food items to our people at prices significantly lower than what they would pay in the market,” he said.
The governor also announced the suspension of all forms of market levies, except for development and environmental levies, which are intended for market development.
He warned that anyone caught collecting illegal fees in markets would face the full force of the law.
Abiodun further assured that exorbitant rents imposed on market traders would be addressed.
The Gateway Trading Company will initially operate in the four zones of the state, buying in bulk and reselling at more affordable prices to the public.
Mrs Abass praised the governor for his efforts in convening the meeting with market leaders, expressing satisfaction with the resolutions reached.