According to Vanguard, The Aguiyi Ironsi International Market Traders Association in Ladipo, Mushin, Lagos is experiencing rising tension as elections approach. The introduction of membership cards as a voting requirement has sparked controversy, with the opposition group alleging disenfranchisement.
The Chairman, Chief Chukwuma Onyebinama, insists that the membership cards are meant to ensure only genuine members can vote. However, the opposition group claims this is an attempt to disenfranchise them. The situation escalated on August 18, 2024, when opposition members were denied access to a meeting due to lack of identity cards, leading to protests and alleged attacks.
The opposition group has petitioned the Lagos State Government over alleged harassment, intimidation, and threats to their lives by the market's executives and task force committee.
Onyebinama explains that a database was created to track paid-up members and prevent fraud. The database includes vital information such as names, contact details, and payment records. Membership cards were introduced to serve as a verification tool, ensuring only authorized individuals can attend meetings and participate in voting.