The demonstrators, carrying placards and chanting slogans, described the increments as unbearable financial burdensthreatening their businesses and livelihoods. Many traders said the rising costs could force them out of the market if urgent intervention is not made.
The protest, which drew the attention of passersby, commuters, and security operatives, disrupted business activities at the busy commercial hub. Traders accused market authorities and their agents of exploiting them with multiple charges without providing commensurate improvements in infrastructure or security.
One of the traders, speaking during the protest, lamented: “We are already struggling with low sales and the harsh economy. Now they want to increase rent and add unnecessary fees. How do they expect us to survive?”
Security personnel were deployed to the scene to prevent the situation from escalating, while traders vowed to continue their demonstration until their demands are addressed.
The protest highlights growing discontent among market communities in Lagos, where rising operational costs and economic hardship have become major concerns for small and medium-scale businesses.
