Kano Governor Urged to Intervene in Al-Imam Tea Herbs’ Monopoly Dispute
By Mustapha Salisu
The management of Al-Imam Tea Herbs Pure and Healthy Nig. Limited, a Kano-based tea production company, have taken a peaceful demonstration to the State Government House appealing to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to intervene in their struggle against monopolistic practices by a foreign company, Promasidor Nigeria Limited.
Speaking during the protest, The Public Relations Officer of the Company, Sadi Garba Sa’id alleged that Promasidor Nigeria Limited has been using unethical tactics to stifle their growth, including intimidating their workers with arrests and lawsuits.
“Despite legally registering our trademark, Al-Imam Tea Herbs has been facing harassment from the foreign company, which has resulted in significant financial burdens and disruptions of our operations” He lamented
Garba expressed that the company, which employs over 500 workers, is seeking the governor’s intervention to investigate the actions of Promasidor Nigeria Limited, protect their workers from intimidation, and facilitate a dialogue to resolve the issues amicably.
He also appealed to the governor to support local businesses by promoting policies that discourage monopolistic practices and encourage fair competition.
Garba further elucidated that, Promasidor Nigeria Limited filed a lawsuit against Al-Imam Tea Herbs in 2018 over a trademark issue, despite the latter’s legitimate registration with the Trademark Registry, Commercial Law Department of the Ministry of Trade and Investment.
“The foreign company has also been using the police to intimidate Al-Imam Tea Herbs’ workers, arresting them on dubious charges and transporting them to Abuja, far from their homes and families” He expressed.
Garba lamented that if the intimidation continues, the management of Al-Imam Tea Herbs might be forced to lay off some workers, rendering them jobless.
The PRO on behalf of the Management appealed to the governor to take swift action towards addressing this issue and ensure a level playing field for all businesses in Kano State.
“The fate of Al-Imam Tea Herbs and the livelihoods of many depend on the governor’s decisive action. The company remains hopeful for a swift and favorable resolution to the matter” He expressed.
Kano State Chief of Staff, Alh. Shehu Wada Sagagi, received the protesters on behalf of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and assured them that their concerns have been heard.
He promised that the government will thoroughly review their documents and take the necessary steps to address their grievances.
Sagagi reiterated the state government’s commitment to supporting the growth and development of all industries, regardless of size, and urged large corporations to desist from using security agencies to intimidate and harass smaller businesses.
He commended the protesters for their peaceful conduct and assured the management of Al-Imam Tea Herbs that he will present their documents to the Governor for prompt action after reviewing them.
