Protest Erupts in Owerri Over Demolition of Old Timber Market

Residents of Umuonyima community in Owerri Municipal Council, Imo State, have staged a protest against the demolition of the Old Timber Market by the state government.

Christian Anukam, President-General of the community, condemned the action, stating that the government’s decision was inhumane and abrupt. He expressed disappointment that occupants were given just a day’s notice, leaving them no time to safeguard their goods before the demolition.

Anukam questioned why the APC-led administration of Governor Hope Uzodinma would treat the community in such a manner, despite their support. He stressed that a one-day notice was insufficient for traders to evacuate their wares.

Community leader Paschal Ugwuanyi revealed that the land was allocated for the market in 2007 and expressed shock at the sudden eviction. Another leader, Prince Mike Ukaegbu, described the market as the primary source of livelihood for many traders and urged the government to grant more time for relocation.

Other leaders, including the traditional head of the clan, also criticized the short notice, insisting that proper communication should have been made before the demolition.

However, the Owerri Capital Development Authority (OCDA) defended the exercise, stating that a 21-day eviction notice was issued but ignored by traders. OCDA General Manager, Frank Nkem, noted that the area had become a hub for criminal activities, including gun-running and drug peddling. He added that traders had been officially relocated to Naze Industrial Market years ago, but some refused to comply with the directive.