Demolition threat sparks panic in Anambra market as traders challenge govt order

Traders and property developers at Oye Agu Market, Abagana, in Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra State, have appealed for caution over plans by the State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development to demolish some plazas within the market.

The appeal followed the marking of several buildings and the issuance of demolition notices by officials of the Ministry, who gave affected owners a 14-day deadline to remove structures, said to violate physical planning regulations, including the required nine-metre setback from road corridors.

Some affected shop owners expressed surprise, insisting that their buildings were approved by the relevant Government Authorities before construction.

While admitting that certain structures in the market might have breached the original layout, they urged the Government to target only unapproved developments.

Ugochukwu Nwaokaka, Market Chairman, said that many of the affected plazas were legally approved, while developer Ikem Obidigbo said the markings had created panic among traders and investors.

Chinedu Ononiba, Chairman of Njikoka Local Government Area of the State, while responding to the concerns, urged traders to remain calm, assuring them that he would engage relevant authorities to ensure a fair resolution of the matter at the Anambra market, as traders challenge the government order