A visitor to the Onitsha Main Market, named Valentine, has urged the Anambra State Government to rethink its decision to demolish shops recently marked in the market, expressing worries about the impact on livelihoods and public safety.
During an interview with AIT News on February 2, 2026, Valentine highlighted that over 10,000 shops in the market had been marked for demolition. He explained that his visit was motivated by the reactions he saw on social media. "We see the outcry from the people online, so we came to show our support," he remarked.
He stated that conversations with the affected traders revealed that the marking process was done without prior consultation or alternatives. "When we spoke to those whose shops were marked, they reported that no prior notice was given," Valentine noted.
He pointed out that the traders were not provided with any relocation or transition plans. “They were given no options for where to move or reset their businesses,” he added.
Valentine expressed worry about the repercussions of demolishing shops that many depend on for their livelihoods. "If they destroy people's shops where they earn their living without offering any alternatives, it could lead to insecurity," he remarked.
He connected the loss of income to increased social risks. "When someone loses their job unexpectedly, it leads to idleness," Valentine explained.
He emphasized that such situations could drive those affected to seek unreliable means of survival. "They will have to resort to other ways to make a living," he said. He appealed directly to Governor Soludo, asking him to heed the people's concerns.
While recognizing the government’s authority, he called for caution and empathy.
If there must be demolitions, please allow some time for people to find alternative locations," he stressed, noting the difficult economic climate. "The current economic situation is challenging for everyone," he pointed out.
Valentine also questioned the practicality of quickly relocating traders. "It’s not easy for people to find new shops on short notice," he indicated.
He mentioned that feedback from traders revealed it could take a substantial amount of time to secure new locations for their businesses. "Some have said it could take six months to a year at least," he explained.
He cautioned that immediate action could exacerbate ongoing issues. "You can't just wake up and demolish shops," he reiterated.
Valentine called for the government to explore alternatives before moving forward with the demolitions. "Before tearing down the shops where people earn a living, consider providing options for them first," he stated.
He warned that demolishing without safeguards could lead to broader societal issues.
Demolition will only send more people into poverty," Valentine cautioned, linking these outcomes to heightened public safety risks. "This could lead to greater insecurity and numerous problems within society," he concluded.
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