Fear grips traders as Anambra commences another demolition of illegal structures in Onitsha

By Cyprian Ebele, Onitsha

Palpable fear has allegedly gripped traders at Onitsha Main market, following commencement of fresh demolition of illegal structures  by Anambra state government, as part of its ongoing urban renewal and market redevelopment programme.

Recall that the demolition exercise began last weekend by the Anambra State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development in line with Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s broader urban regeneration agenda designed to improve infrastructure, restore order, and create a safer environment for traders and residents.

Areas affected in the demolition exercise include, Bright Street, Johnson Street, and Sokoto Road, where extensive renovation and redevelopment works are expected to commence.

Fielding questions from newsmen, the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Chijioke Ojukwu, said the demolition became necessary in view of scores of the affected structures that had illegally encroached on public spaces and obstructed both vehicular and pedestrian movement.

According to him, “Most of these shanties were built on the right of way, making movement difficult for motorists and pedestrians. We must create the necessary corridors for expansion and ensure proper physical planning in line with the state’s development blueprint.”

He stressed that the exercise was not a surprise to affected occupants, noting that the government had issued adequate notices before enforcement commenced.

He disclosed that the redevelopment project has already received the approval of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, with contracts awarded for the comprehensive renovation and modernization of the affected sections of the market.

Ojukwu stated that the exercise is expected to transform the Main Market into a world-class commercial centre capable of supporting increased business activities while enhancing safety, sanitation, accessibility, and overall aesthetics.

When contacted, the President-General, Anambra State Markets Amalgamated Traders Association (ASMATA), Chief Humphrey Anuna, expressed  his support for the regeneration of the market and described the redevelopment project as a landmark intervention that will benefit traders and future generations.

“This project is a welcome development. We urge all traders to cooperate fully with the government and support the ongoing transformation of our markets. The future benefits far outweigh the temporary inconveniences,” Anuna said.

Anuna expressed concern over what he described as the slow response by some traders to earlier evacuation directives, urging those yet to comply to do so in order to avoid unnecessary losses during the demolition.