Security forces, including soldiers, police, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), have assumed control of the well-known Yankalli Market, a major commodity market in Plateau State. This action was taken in response to an attempt by hoodlums to break in and steal food and other essential commodities.

Daily Trust reports that the hoodlums including both males and females, arrived at the market around 8:00 pm on Friday but were intercepted by security operatives who had been deployed in anticipation of attack.

Alhaji Jamilu Kabiru, chairman of a traders’ association, confirmed the development, stating that they had earlier reported to security agencies.

He said “We had heard on Thursday that hoodlums from Gangare, Rikkos and other places would attack the market to loot food items on the ground that we sell the commodities at high price. We didn’t take the rumor for granted and quickly reported the case to the security agencies that swiftly intervened. We had to sleep with our eyes open in the market to keep vigilance with the security.

“We are not the cause of inflation. The rise in price is not because of us. Our goods are always bought from companies. The increase is always from the companies. In addition that, when you buy commodities from Lagos, you have to hire a truck for a price of over two million naira. What you spend on transporting the commodities to your destination, you divide the expenditure by the number of commodities, and that’s how the price is increasing. It is not our fault. We want people to understand that.

“In our market, we centrally control price of goods. It is a competitive market where everyone is struggling to sell and bring new goods. People should please understand with us.”

Spokesperson of the state police command, DSP Alabo Alfred, who confirmed the development, said, “We got the information early and with the support of some people in the market and we were able to suppress the attempt. The operation was led by the Area Commander of the area and was successful.”