Traders and buyers have expressed their displeasure over the lockdown of the Wuse and UTC markets in Abuja due to their alleged violation of the Presidential Task Force (PTF) Covid-19 protocols.
An Abuja court had on Monday, February 2, 2021 insisted on the closure of the two commercial centers for violating the guidelines adding that the measures are there to contain the spread of the virus.
While visiting the affected centers on Wednesday, Roots TV was informed that some traders and commuters were also arrested by the Covid-19 task team, while business activities have since been halted.
Aggrieved Nigerians demonstrated their displeasure as their livelihoods depend on their daily earnings, which have been interrupted by the closure of the markets.
They called out the government and the covid-19 task team for being insensitive to the plight of citizens who have been left stranded without prior notice of the closure.
The main entrance gate to Wuse market was shut and surrounded by security operatives to stop people from entering.
Also, the UTC Shopping center and Murg Plaza were barred from all commercial activities by security operatives as the occupants failed to provide basic safety kits to prevent the spread of the Covid-19.
An official of the Covid-19 task team, who spoke off-camera assured that Wuse market would be re-opened later on Wednesday after a proper inspection of covid-19 measures put in place by the market management is carried out.
While traders await the opening of the market, they have promised to henceforth adhere to the laid down protocols.
