Ogun unveils bulk purchase initiative, pledges affordable food prices

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, on Thursday, revealed plans by his administration to introduce a price control mechanism in the state.

Abiodun also announced the suspension of all forms of market levies, stating that only development and environmental levies would be permitted, as they are intended for the development of markets in the state.

The governor disclosed this during a meeting with market leaders, led by the Iyaloja General, Mrs Yemisi Abass, at the Governor’s Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

As part of efforts to curb the rise in food prices, Abiodun stated that the state government would soon launch the operation of its Bulk Purchasing Company, which has been rebranded as the Gateway Trading Company.

He explained that the company would ensure that the cost of food items is more affordable for the people.

Abiodun further noted that Gateway Trading Company would initially commence operations in the four zones of the state.

He said, “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.

“We will aggressively implement our Gateway Trading objectives. Initially, they will operate in the four zones, buying in bulk and reselling at more affordable prices to the public,” he added.

The governor also warned that anyone caught collecting illegal fees in markets across the state would face the full force of the law. He further assured that exorbitant and unbearable rents imposed on market traders would be addressed.

In her remarks, Mrs Abass praised the governor for his efforts in convening the meeting with market leaders to discuss ways of making life easier for the people of the state. She expressed satisfaction with the resolutions reached during the meeting.