By Chukwuka Ugokwe
The Anambra State Government has commenced the demolition of illegal structures obstructing traffic, violating approved building setbacks around Onitsha Main Market and adjoining areas, following the expiration of a series of removal notices issued to affected traders and roadside business operators.
The enforcement exercise, carried out on July 26, targeted illegal roadside shops and other unapproved structures located at the Bright Street and Johnson Street entrances to the market, where they had impeded the free flow of traffic and pedestrian movement.
During the exercise, some affected traders were seen removing their goods from the structures, while officials monitored the operation to maintain order.
The enforcement team demolished a building comprising 16 lock up shops located in front of an iconic building along new market road, citing violations of the state’s physical planning and setback regulations.
Leading the exercise, the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Barr. Chijioke Ojukwu, said the demolition followed the expiration of multiple notices served on the owners of the affected structures.
According to him, the ministry issued three separate removal notices and engaged town criers to notify traders and shop owners to vacate the affected locations and remove their belongings before the commencement of the exercise.
Barr. Ojukwu explained that the operation forms part of the government’s ongoing efforts to restore order, improve traffic flow, and enforce compliance with the state’s physical planning laws.
He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to sustained monitoring and enforcement to prevent illegal developments, promoting orderly urban planning across Anambra State.
Reacting to the exercise, the President-General of the Anambra State Amalgamated Traders Association (ASMATA), Chief Humphrey Anuna, commended the state government for restoring order around the market, urging traders to comply with government directives to avoid future sanctions.
The demolition exercise underscores the Anambra State Government’s commitment to creating safer, more accessible and better organised commercial environments through strict enforcement of urban development regulations.
Chukwuka Ugokwe is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
