Government Moves to Restore Onitsha Main Market Layout

THE long-anticipated demolition of illegal structures within Onitsha Main Market commenced on Sunday, following the expiration of a one-month evacuation notice issued to traders.

The market, located in Onitsha North Local Government Area, had seen widespread construction of unauthorized extensions and makeshift stalls, prompting state authorities to intervene.

Traders Chose Partial Demolition

The exercise follows earlier consultations between market leaders and Charles Soludo. At the meeting, the governor reportedly presented two options: a complete redevelopment of the entire market or selective demolition aimed at restoring its original structural design.

Traders rejected the total demolition option and instead supported the removal of illegal structures, requesting time to relocate their goods before enforcement began. The government granted a 30-day grace period, which lapsed at the end of February.

Restoring Commercial Order

Chief Everist Uba, Special Adviser to the governor on Markets, confirmed that the demolition was underway and described it as part of efforts to reclaim the market’s architectural integrity.

He said the proliferation of unauthorized structures had disrupted business activities and limited accessibility for traders and customers alike.

Responding to reports of a possible court injunction, Mazi Ejimofor Opara, Senior Special Assistant on New Media, stated that no court order restrains the Onitsha North Local Government from carrying out the exercise.

The Chairman of the local government, Hon. Anthony Nweze Nworah, said he would provide further comments after the demolition exercise concludes.

Onitsha Main Market is one of West Africa’s largest trading hubs, and the ongoing restructuring is expected to reshape its commercial landscape in the months ahead.