Governorship aspirant of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Oyo State, Barrister Niyi Aborisade, has faulted the handling of the ongoing market leadership crisis by the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde, warning that the development reflects growing discontent among grassroots stakeholders.
Aborisade, popularly known as BANA, spoke against the backdrop of the rejection of a proposed market council inauguration in Ogbomoso by market leaders across the state, who described the exercise as illegal and a “charade.”
The controversy followed an announcement of the formation of a unified Craftsmen and Traders Association for the Ogbomoso zone, which has since been disowned by key stakeholders in the market system.
Reacting, Aborisade criticised what she described as undue interference of the state government in the internal affairs of market associations, noting that such actions undermine established structures and traditions.
According to him, the resistance by market leaders goes beyond mere disagreement over leadership, stressing that it signals a deeper disconnect between the government and the grassroots.
“This is not just about markets or leadership tussle. It is a reflection of a wider dissatisfaction among the people. When traders and artisans openly reject a process backed by government officials, it raises serious concerns about governance and inclusiveness,” he said.
Market leaders had earlier denounced the involvement of the Commissioner for Trade and Commerce, Hon. Niyi Adebisi, arguing that the ministry lacks the statutory authority to constitute or impose market leadership outside local government structures.
They also rejected the recognition of Alhaji Y.K. Abass as “Babaloja General,” insisting that the matter remains in court and cannot be unilaterally determined.
Aligning with their position, Aborisade warned that attempts to impose leadership through government backing could further polarise the market system and trigger avoidable tension.
He described the reported adoption of a limited number of market clusters in the process as a “divide and rule” tactic that alienates the majority of stakeholders.
“The markets are critical to the economic life of the state. Any attempt to politicise or control them through imposition will only breed resistance and instability,” he added.
Aborisade therefore called on the Makinde administration to urgently review its approach, engage all relevant stakeholders, and respect the autonomy of market associations to prevent escalation of the crisis.
He cautioned that failure to address the grievances of traders and artisans could have broader political implications, noting that the unfolding situation may be interpreted as a loss of confidence in the government at the grassroots level.
Meanwhile, market leaders have urged traders and artisans across the state to boycott activities associated with the disputed Ogbomoso council, while calling for immediate intervention to restore order and unity within the system.
