By Anastasia Agunwa/Chizoba Okeke
A Bill for a law for the establishment, regulation and management of markets and for related purposes has been passed on the floor of the State Legislature.
The Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze who presided over the plenary had moved for the passage of the Bill while the lawmakers unanimously adopted it through voice votes.
The law which seeks for the establishment, regulation and management of markets in the State 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 debate for the second reading, the Majority leader, Hon. Ikenna Ofodeme described Anambra State as a premier cultural and industrial hub city of the South East.
According to him, 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.
Ofodeme emphasized that the law would provide a backing to end the Monday sit-at-home and also protect Ndi Anambra going about their businesses every Monday.
Speaking in favour of the Bill, Hon. Kingsley Udemezue representing Idemili North constituency pointed out that the bill is to avoid incessant opening of markets everywhere in the State.
He stressed that the bill would give 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.
