Ondo Bars Association from Fixing Prices of Good, Service

Worried by the rise in prices of commodities, especially food items and services in the state, the Ondo State Government has barred all Trading Unions and Associations under the umbrella of Ondo State United Artisan Group, from fixing and enforcing uniform prices of goods and services being sold/ rendered by their members and non-members.

The State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr Donald Ojogo, disclosed the action of the government in a statement.

He said the government took the measure to protect residents in the state amid soaring costs and incessant increases in prices of goods and services by artisans including farm produce and food items.

The commissioner added that the decision was taken in the overall socio-economic interest of the people of the State.

He said, “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, “he said.