The Onitsha North Local Government Area (LGA) in Anambra State has begun demolishing illegal structures at the bustling Onitsha Main Market, igniting widespread protests from affected traders.
The demolition exercise, intended to restore the market’s original masterplan and improve trade operations, began early Sunday morning.
Bulldozers targeted structures across Park 1, Park 2, Park 3, and key streets including Bright, Johnson, and Gwomgworo.
Security personnel, including the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and military operatives, blocked roads leading to the market before the operation commenced at 1:00 a.m.
Some traders had preemptively cleared their shops on Saturday.
Chairman of Onitsha North LGA, Anthony Nwora, emphasized that all traders were properly notified ahead of time.
The demolition notice, titled “Final Reminder on Demolition of Illegal Structures at Main Market, Onitsha,” highlighted that previous 14-day notices had expired, including a two-week extension.
The LGA advised traders to remove valuables prior to enforcement. Despite this, traders expressed frustration over the disruption.
Textile trader Rebecca Uche lamented losing over N2 million in property just weeks after renovating her shop, citing serious health concerns.
Another trader, Ozoemenam Opara, noted that a court injunction from Justice J.I. Nweze of the Onitsha High Court, which directed parties to maintain the status quo pending a March 16 hearing, did not halt the demolition.
Observations at the site revealed broken blocks, scattered roofing sheets, and damaged goods littering streets.
Traders hurriedly salvaged items at minimal cost, highlighting the economic strain caused by the enforcement.
This demolition underscores the ongoing tension between government urban planning initiatives and trader livelihoods in Anambra State, raising questions about alternative provisions for affected market operators.
