The Anambra State House of Assembly has called on the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to expedite the reopening of Ogbo Ogwu Market in Onitsha, citing severe economic hardship faced by over 10,000 traders, apprentices, and their families.
During today’s plenary session, the Assembly passed a resolution following a motion of urgent public importance moved by Chief Tony Moubike, representing Aguata Constituency Two. Lawmakers expressed concern that the prolonged closure, which began on February 9, 2025, could push many youths into crime and antisocial behavior.
The House also urged market leaders to implement strict monitoring systems to prevent and report illicit activities, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
Speaker Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze acknowledged widespread appeals for the market’s reopening, stressing that the ongoing verification process is imposing undue hardship on residents. The Assembly called on NAFDAC to accelerate its inspection to allow traders to resume business as soon as possible.
