Benin City, Edo State – Barely months after it was launched with fanfare, the newly opened ShopRite outlet inside Benin City Mall has reportedly shut its doors to customers, sparking shock and disappointment among residents.

The facility, which was commissioned by immediate past Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki, had been celebrated as a milestone project expected to boost commerce, create jobs, and enhance the shopping experience in Edo’s capital.

Why ShopRite Benin Closed Down

Reports indicate that the closure was triggered by the unsustainable high cost of operations, with electricity bills and taxes alone allegedly surpassing ₦40 million monthly.

According to insiders, the outlet had been struggling to balance its operating expenses against revenue, with energy tariffs and multiple levies placing heavy pressure on the business.

Residents React With Disappointment

The reported closure has sparked widespread reactions from Edo people, many of whom had welcomed ShopRite as a sign of modern retail growth in the state.

One resident told Edocelebrities.com:

“This is heartbreaking. ShopRite was supposed to bring more life to Benin City and provide jobs for our youths. If they can’t survive here because of electricity and taxes, how will smaller businesses cope?”

Bigger Questions on Edo’s Business Environment

The development has also reopened debates about the ease of doing business in Nigeria, particularly in Edo State. Stakeholders argue that if a global retail giant like ShopRite finds it difficult to sustain operations due to high electricity tariffs and multiple taxation, local businesses may face even tougher challenges.

What This Means for Edo’s Economy

The Benin City Mall, once touted as a new hub for shopping and leisure, may now struggle to attract patronage and investors following the reported shutdown of its anchor tenant, ShopRite. Economists warn that the closure could also affect employment, supply chains, and general consumer confidence in the state’s retail sector.

As of the time of this report, ShopRite management has not released an official statement, but calls are growing for the Edo State Government to intervene and address the rising costs crippling businesses across the state.