Traders Cry Out as Abia Government Demolishes Ekeoha Market Amid Economic Crisis(PHOTOS| #NwokeukwuMascot

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Abia State Government’s Demolition of Ekeoha Shopping Center Sparks Outrage Amid Economic Hardship | #NwokeukwuMascot

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The Alex Otti-led Abia State Government is facing heavy criticism following the demolition of the Ekeoha Shopping Center Market in Aba, a move that many residents and traders have labeled as ill-timed and insensitive given the prevailing economic hardships. The demolition, which began earlier this week, has left hundreds of traders distraught and uncertain about their livelihoods as the government pushes forward with its plans to modernize the market.

Recall we had earlier reported that the High Court of Abia State, presided over by Justice C.K. Nwankwo, recently ordered all parties involved in the dispute over the remodeling of Ekeoha Shopping Center to maintain the status quo pending a court hearing scheduled for August 27, 2024. 

The case, which was brought by a group of shop owners led by Chief Chris Uruakpa and others, challenges an alleged illegal remodeling agreement between the state government and Rhyno Homes and Properties Ltd. The plaintiffs contend that they received a "Relocation Notice" without prior consultation, despite their offer to handle the remodeling themselves—an offer the government reportedly ignored.

The traders further allege that the remodeling agreement was made without their consent and accuse state officials, including the Commissioner for Trade and Investment, of lacking the legal grounds to proceed without offering them the right of first refusal.

However, the Ministry of Trade and Commerce has maintained that the demolition is an initiative to rebuild and modernize Aba's marketplaces. This decision has sparked outrage among traders and residents who argue that the timing is inconsiderate, especially amid soaring inflation, job losses, and widespread financial struggles.

Mrs. Chinyere Nwankwo, a trader dealing on clothing materials, voiced her frustrations: “We are not against development, but what we need now is support, not demolition. Many of us rely on this market to feed our families, pay school fees, and survive these difficult times. The government should have considered this.”

Critics argue that the Otti administration has failed to provide adequate alternatives or compensation for the traders whose businesses are being uprooted. While the governor has promised to modernize the market, there is no clear plan to accommodate displaced traders during the reconstruction, exacerbating the economic hardships many are already facing.

Mr. Emeka Okeke, another business owner in the market, expressed his anger, saying, “This decision was made without proper consultation or consideration for those who depend on this market. Many traders are now struggling to find new spaces, and the cost of relocation is unbearable, especially in these economically uncertain times.”

Repeated attempts to reach the state government for further clarification have been met with silence, leaving traders and the public in the dark about the details of the plan. This lack of communication has done little to calm the affected traders, who feel abandoned by an administration that had pledged to prioritize their welfare. The absence of dialogue has only fueled the frustration and distrust among those whose livelihoods are at stake, as they continue to grapple with the devastating impact of the demolition.

The situation at Ekeoha Shopping Center reflects a pattern of decision-making by the Otti administration that critics argue is disconnected from the daily struggles of the people. Observers have called on the government to rethink its approach and engage with stakeholders to find solutions that balance development with empathy for the economic realities facing citizens.

As the demolition continues, traders are left grappling with an uncertain future, hoping for a government that listens and acts with compassion during these challenging times.

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