Former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olabode George, has called on Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to address the escalating harassment, extortion, and physical abuse of traders by state officials and security agents.

In an open letter to the governor, George expressed grave concern over the plight of traders, highlighting that many face constant harassment and are subjected to heavy levies. He lamented that traders are ?harassed and flogged like criminals? by government agents, despite their contributions to the economy.

He wrote, ?I bring to your attention the suffering of countless traders in Lagos State. Lagos is known as the Centre of Excellence, yet these traders face treatment that is anything but excellent. Beyond paying multiple levies, they endure daily extortion from local authorities and street thugs. It is appalling that these traders, who struggle daily just to survive, are treated worse than criminals.?

According to George, many traders are forced to sell on the streets due to the high cost of market shops, with some shops priced at over N1 million. For many, this is beyond reach, leaving street trading as their only option.

?In the 21st century, it is inhumane for government officials to treat traders as though they were bandits or terrorists. Where is our sense of dignity? These traders are not criminals. They deserve respect as they try to make an honest living,? he continued.

George urged the Sanwo-Olu administration to adopt more constructive solutions to street trading, such as regulating their activities or establishing skill acquisition programs. He emphasized that harassing traders and confiscating their goods is not the answer.

?After paying their daily dues, these traders are hounded, their wares confiscated, and they are often locked up. This triple tragedy should be addressed with compassion, not punishment. Many of these traders support families, including children in tertiary institutions, and the loss of their livelihood only deepens their hardship,? George added.

He also referenced the ?Arab Spring? as a cautionary reminder of what can happen when people?s frustrations boil over due to harsh treatment and economic challenges.

In a plea to the governor, George stated, ?Street traders are respectable citizens who strive every day despite the tough times they face. It is unjust for them to be treated with disdain, while loiterers and miscreants roam freely. Arresting street traders en masse and shoving them into Black Maria trucks, which are meant for hardened criminals, is a disgraceful display of inhumanity in this century.?

George concluded by calling for an end to the abuse of state power against traders, urging officials to adopt a more compassionate and civil approaches that aligns with global standards of human decency. He urged Governor Sanwo-Olu to take immediate steps to stop the harassment and find a humane solution that respects the traders? dignity. (Vanguard)

Update news