The Adamawa State Government’s demolition of illegal structures at the Jimeta Ultra-Modern Market has sparked mixed reactions among traders and residents.
Naijaonpoint reports that the exercise, which began on Tuesday, followed a directive from Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, conveyed in a September 12 letter by the Adamawa State Urban & Regional Planning Board (ASUPDA).
According to the government, some traders had erected unauthorised temporary shops that blocked access roads and distorted the market’s master plan.
Shop owners and buyers were seen in visible distress, with many condemning the move.
According to Daily Post, a trader, Abubakar Sa’ad, said the demolition was harsh and poorly timed.
“We were not given enough time to find alternatives. With the current economic hardship, this is unfair. The government should provide us with new trading spaces,” he lamented.
Another trader, Salomi Charles, echoed the concern, appealing for support to enable affected traders to resume their businesses.
But the Commissioner for Commerce, Trade and Industry, Dr Ishaya John Dabari, defended the demolition, stressing that only traders who erected illegal shops were affected.
“Because of the demolition, both traders and the government have lost revenue. But this action will help restore order and enhance sustainable revenue generation in the future,” Dabari said, noting that no compensation would be paid.
The Chairman of the Restoration Committee and Director of ASUPDA, T.P. John Zutuwa, revealed that over 2,000 illegal structures had already been demolished, with more still to be removed.
“All developments not in conformity with the master plan must go,” Zutuwa declared, adding that the government was determined to restore the market to its original design.