Worried by the rising cost of food items in Osun State, the state governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, flagged off a commodity farmers market yesterday to stem the trend.
Speaking at Ayegbaju market Osogbo, which would serve as the trading ground, the governor, who was represented by the commissioner of Commerce and Industry, Rev. Bunmi Jenyo, said his concern for the well-being of the people of Osun informed his decision to take the initiative.
He explained that the market would allow consumers to buy directly from farmers at affordable prices without the interference of middlemen.
Adeleke, however, urged the farmers to sell at prices with minimal profit margin, adding that the shops would be allocated to them free of charge for the first three months.
“The idea of this Commodity Farmers’ Market is well thought out as the government has always wanted to reduce the hike in prices of food items, which has continued unabated.
“What we are doing today will automatically bring down the cost of farm produce as farmers will sell directly to the final consumers. The high food price has made life unbearable for the common man and has given the government a sleepless night.
“As part of the government’s support to your Association, my office has given you the privilege of utilizing the shops allocated for your use inside Ayegbaju International Market free of charge for the next three months without any charges. This is to allow your association to have a sound footing.
He also appealed to other farmers’ associations, including the market men and women, to collaborate with the South-West Commodities Farmers’ Organizations to ensure the desired results.
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