The Adamawa State Government has demolished over 2,000 illegal shops and attachments in the Jimeta Ultra-Modern Market, Yola.
The exercise is part of efforts to restore the facility to its original master plan.
Chairman of the Committee for Restoration of the Market, Mr. John Juntuwa, confirmed the exercise while speaking to journalists on Wednesday, in Yola.
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He explained that the operation was carried out in line with the government’s plan to decongest the market and restore order, stressing that security personnel had been deployed to ensure a smooth exercise.
According to him, traders were duly notified ahead of the demolition and had appealed for an extension of time.
“Notices were served, and after they requested for seven extra days, Governor Ahmadu Fintiri graciously granted them 14 days,” Juntuwa said.
He added that the illegal structures had hindered free movement of customers and vehicles within the market, while also reducing the facility’s standard and revenue potential.
“The exercise will not only improve the market environment but also boost revenue generation for the state,” he noted.
Meanwhile, Chief Henry Okobieme, a businessman, urged the government to provide an alternative trading space for those displaced by the demolition.
He warned that failure to do so could worsen poverty and lead to rising criminality in the state.
“Any action taken by the government is for the betterment of the people and not to injure them.
“We are appealing to the government to provide an alternative trading space for the victims to avoid crimes,” Okobieme said.
The state government has maintained that the demolition is a necessary step to reposition the Jimeta market and enhance economic activities in Yola.
