The Abia State Government has begun the demolition of buildings erected without approval at the former Umuahia market, popularly known as Ogwumabiri, as part of its plan to transform the city into a modern capital. Acting through the Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA), the state moved in to clear the area, citing a breach of the original development plan.

Speaking on the development, UCDA General Manager, Kingsley Agomoh, explained that the land was initially allocated by the previous administration to a private investor for the construction of an event centre under a build, operate, and transfer arrangement. He revealed that instead of following the approved plan, the investor began developing residential duplexes and apartments. “The former market site was never intended for residential housing. Our vision is to create a modern city and a befitting state capital, and this requires strict adherence to approved land use,” Agomoh said.

He noted that the government had engaged the investor in discussions for over a year, offering an ex-gratia settlement that would allow the space to be repurposed for a modern transportation hub. The proposed hub, he said, would combine a bus terminal, a train station, and intercity shuttle facilities, serving as a major driver of connectivity and economic growth.

“The structures we demolished were not only unauthorized but also inconsistent with the overriding public interest. The new transportation hub will strengthen the city’s infrastructure, improve mobility, and contribute to Umuahia’s transformation into a world-class capital,” Agomoh stated.

He emphasized that the government remains committed to balancing development with fairness, but would not compromise on projects designed to serve the collective interest of residents and promote sustainable urban growth.

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Eyewitnesses reported that heavily armed security operatives and unidentified individuals stormed the market early Thursday morning, accompanied by bulldozers that began tearing down structures. Traders who attempted to resist the demolition were reportedly dispersed by sporadic gunshots fired into the air.

The incident reignited tension among shop owners who have been embroiled in a legal dispute concerning the ownership and control of the market land. The matter, which is currently before an Ikeja High Court under Suit No. ID/1757/1994, had prompted the issuance of a court order on June 2, directing all parties to maintain the status quo until the next hearing on July 2.

This latest demolition comes just months after over 500 shops were razed in a March 2025 exercise, sparking protests and petitions to the Lagos State House of Assembly and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. With no response from authorities, the traders escalated the matter to the judiciary.

Reacting to the incident, the Centre for Human and Socio-economic Rights (CHSR) condemned the demolition. Its president, Comrade Alex Omotehinse, described the operation as “a violation of due process” and called on senior police officials to investigate the officers allegedly involved.

“We are concerned that these actions defy an existing court order and could incite a breakdown of law and order. It is imperative for authorities to uphold the rule of law and safeguard public trust in legal processes,” Omotehinse stated.

A trader, Solomon Joel, who witnessed the demolition, said: “We are not against development or resolution, but this approach is violent and unjust. There are legal channels being pursued, yet we are being punished for seeking justice.”

Community leaders have urged the Lagos State Police Command to investigate the role of security personnel in the demolition and prevent further escalation. Attempts to reach police spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin were unsuccessful at the time of reporting.

As tensions continue, stakeholders are calling for calm, legal accountability, and adherence to judicial directives to prevent further unrest.

The post Tension in Lagos as Traders Injured During Owode Market Demolition Despite Court Order appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

They demanded an immediate halt to the ongoing demolition of their market and intervention by state lawmakers.

The protesters carried placards, condemning the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) for alleged unjust actions.

Market leaders said the demolition occurred on March 6, 2025, without prior notice, causing losses worth billions of naira.

Market President Abiodun Ahmed claimed over 500 shops were demolished, leaving traders devastated and some hospitalized.

“At least three traders have died, and many are hospitalized due to the demolition’s impact,” Ahmed stated.

Another market executive, Samuel Oluwole Gaba, noted that 41,000 traders now face uncertainty about their livelihoods.

Protesters said their businesses attracted international buyers, questioning the government’s lack of notice before the action.

Some traders accused looters of taking advantage of the demolition to steal valuable machines and goods from their shops.

Lawmaker Adebola Shabi assured the protesters that the Assembly would investigate and provide a swift resolution.

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