Onitsha Market Demolition Triggers Trader Anger

Onitsha Market Demolition Triggers Trader Anger

Traders at Onitsha Main Market woke up to rubble on Sunday after the Onitsha North Local Government Area began pulling down structures described as illegal.

Security personnel, including soldiers and operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, blocked access roads before the demolition started.

The council said the action was part of efforts to restore the market’s original masterplan and improve trading conditions.

Authorities had earlier issued a 14-day notice to affected traders, later extending it by another two weeks. The final deadline expired on February 28, 2026.

By Sunday morning, large sections of the busy market lay in ruins. Broken blocks, roofing sheets and damaged goods were scattered across the area as traders struggled to salvage what they could.

Several traders said they had recently paid large sums for the shops and carried out renovations before the demolition notice was served.

They expressed worry over how the loss would affect their businesses and families.

The local government, however, maintained that occupants had been duly notified and advised to remove their valuables before enforcement began.

Demolition is expected to continue on Monday as authorities push ahead with the restructuring plan.