By Mimi Chiadikaobi
A bill for a law for the establishment, regulation and management of markets and for related purposes has been passed into law by the Anambra State House of Assembly.
The Speaker, Mr. Somtochukwu Udeze.said the law seeks for the establishment, regulation and management of markets in the State.This
According to him, this is to boost economic activities across the state and put an end to the devastating effects of Monday sit-at-home.
The bill was passed into law after it scaled through first, second and third readings after suspension of relevant rules to allow it’s accelerated consideration.
Leading the debate for the second reading, the majority leader, Mr. Ikenna Ofodeme stated that Anambra State is a premier cultural and industrial hub city of the south east and being a state that is growing and urbanizing everyday, there is need for certain laws that will manage, guide and protect it’s people and at the same time boost and harmonize the IGR of the State.
He pointed out that the bill will actually manage the excesses and challenges faced in the leadership of the markets.
He emphasised that the law will provide a backing to end the Monday sit-at-home and also protect Anambra residents going about their businesses every Monday.
Supporting the bill, Mr Kingsley Udemezue representing Idemili North pointed out that the bill is to avoid incessant opening of markets everywhere in the State stressing that the bill gives directives to individuals to obtain permits from relevant authorities before putting up structures in the market.
The law mandates market executives to keep records of traders and carry out periodic inspections to ensure compliance and prevent criminal activities within market environment.
The law prescribes penalties for defaulters including fines and possible imprisonment for individuals or business owners who do not comply with the provisions of the law.
