Tension gripped Onitsha Main Market in the early hours of Sunday as bulldozers rolled in and began pulling down what authorities described as “illegal structures,” leaving traders in shock and despair, Truth live news reports.
The demolition, carried out by the Onitsha North Local Government Area, targeted structures at Park 1, Park 2, Park 3, and sections along Bright Street, Johnson Street, and Gwomgworo. Security operatives including soldiers, personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and other state agents barricaded access roads before the operation commenced around 1:00 a.m.
By sunrise, large portions of the once-bustling commercial hub had been reduced to rubble. Broken blocks, twisted roofing sheets, and damaged goods littered the streets as stunned traders attempted to salvage what remained of their investments.
“I Paid Over N2m for This Shop”
Many traders said the demolition came despite a pending court matter. Textile dealer Rebecca Uche, fighting back tears, recounted her ordeal.
“I just came back from the hospital. I have a spinal problem. I paid over N2m for the shop less than six months ago. I had just finished renovating it when the notice came,” she said.
“Even if they want to remodel the market, demolishing everything without alternatives is hardship.”
Another trader, Ozoemenam Opara, claimed that occupants had secured an injunction from Justice J.I. Nweze of the Onitsha High Court directing parties to maintain the status quo pending a hearing scheduled for March 16.
“We believed the court order would stop it. But we woke up to see bulldozers already working,” he lamented.
Okeke Akasim described collapsing at the scene after discovering his shop had been demolished with goods still inside. “I rushed there at 2 a.m., but everything was already gone,” he said.
Chairman of Onitsha North LGA, Anthony Nwora, maintained that the demolition followed due process. According to him, affected traders were served an initial 14-day notice, later extended by another 14 days at their request, with the final expiration set for February 28, 2026.
“The occupants were duly notified. The aim is to restore the original masterplan and ensure seamless ‘trade and shop’ activities,” Nwora said in a statement titled “Final Reminder on Demolition of Illegal Structures at Main Market, Onitsha.”
Authorities argue that the exercise is necessary to reclaim public spaces and improve trading conditions within one of West Africa’s largest markets.Observers described the aftermath as heartbreaking. Some traders were seen selling salvaged items at minimal prices, while others stood helplessly amid debris.
The demolition has reignited debate over urban planning enforcement in Anambra State , particularly whether adequate alternatives and compensation mechanisms are provided when enforcement actions displace livelihoods.
For now, emotions remain high in Onitsha, as traders count their losses and await the next legal move in a dispute that is far from over.
