Tomato Crates Dealers Association threatens Lagos Tomato supply amidst clash fallout

In a concerning development, the Tomato Crates Dealers Association of Nigeria has issued a stern warning of potential tomato supply disruption to Lagos State. The cause? Alleged destruction of their goods during a recent clash

Alhaji Ahmed Alaramma, the association’s National Chairman and also the National Secretary of the Amalgamated Union of Foodstuff and Cattle Dealers of Nigeria, conveyed the threat during a news briefing held in Zaria on Sunday.

The clash, which erupted on May 1st at Ile-Epo Market in Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos State, reportedly inflicted severe damage on the association’s investment, particularly in over 60,000 empty tomato crates.

According to Alaramma, the clash resulted in the destruction of their investment, primarily composed of the raffia baskets initially used for transporting tomatoes to the south. However, due to the baskets causing more harm to the tomatoes, plastic crates were introduced as an alternative.

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Highlighting the magnitude of the financial loss, Alaramma revealed that each empty crate costs N6,000, translating to a staggering loss exceeding N360 million in investment for the association’s members.

The association is now urging the Federal Government, Lagos State Government, and other pertinent stakeholders to address the issue promptly and provide compensation to mitigate the damage suffered.

Expressing their preparedness to pursue legal avenues if necessary, Alaramma emphasized that the association is already consulting with its legal team for potential remedies if responses from the government are unsatisfactory.

Should their grievances remain unaddressed, Alaramma warned that the association might resort to the drastic measure of cutting tomato supplies to Lagos State.

The clash at Ile-Epo Market, which saw a section of the market set ablaze amidst clashes, resulted in numerous injuries and significant destruction of goods, amplifying the urgency for resolution to prevent further economic repercussions.