The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has expressed deep concern over the recent demolition of the historic Alaba Rago Market in Lagos State, describing the development as a painful disruption to livelihoods.
By Chomezie Godfrey
The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has expressed deep concern over the recent demolition of the historic Alaba Rago Market in Lagos State, describing the development as a painful disruption to livelihoods.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Prof. T. A. Muhammad-Baba, the Forum said the demolition “has resulted in heavy losses of businesses and property, with disruptions to the means of livelihood for thousands of people.”
Prof. Muhammad-Baba, however, noted that it was a relief that no lives were lost, adding: “ACF commiserates with all those affected, who suffered direct and indirect losses and other disruptions arising from the development. Hopefully, the usual famed stoic resilience of our industrious people will come to play in helping those affected to cope with losses arising from the demolition.”
The Forum explained that it has already initiated efforts to obtain full details of the incident, including its impact and the antecedents leading to it. “The outcome of our findings will provide a basis for constructive engagement with the affected community and the Lagos State Government towards a satisfactory resolution of the problem,” it said.
While urging calm, the ACF called on government to act swiftly. “We appeal to the Lagos State and Federal authorities to extend aid to the victims of the incident and to help all to rebuild their lives,” the statement stressed.
The Forum also admonished all those affected and their sympathisers to remain law-abiding. “Alaba Rago has been a historic landmark in Lagos, and ACF believes it will remain so. In the fullness of time, the market will roar back to life, even more vibrant and prosperous,” Prof. Muhammad-Baba added.