Shop owners lament the absence of a warming alert.
Abuja’s bustling Area 1 Shopping Complex is now facing imminent demolition, catching many traders off guard.
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) dropped the bombshell on Sunday, unveiling plans to dismantle illegal structures, attachment shops, and unauthorized constructions within the complex.
The FCTA’s decision comes as a response to mounting concerns over the area’s persistent problems, including chaotic traffic, overcrowded parking, and overall disarray. This massive cleanup operation kicked off on Monday, September 18, following consultations with the local traders.
Muktar Galadima, Director of FCTA Development Control, revealed that this move resulted from a comprehensive meeting involving key FCTA departments, including Development Control, Security Service, the Abuja Environmental Protection Board, and the Abuja Investments Company Ltd. Galadima emphasized the urgent need for a cleaner, safer, and more organized shopping environment, citing issues related to hygiene, security, and emergency preparedness due to the complex’s cluttered and unsanitary conditions.
One of the primary concerns raised by Galadima was the proliferation of kilishi and suya vendors, each using individual generators and contributing to noise pollution. Furthermore, he highlighted the potential fire hazard posed by the current market setup, underscoring the importance of preemptive measures to avert disasters.
In response, Umar Uba, a representative of the traders, expressed gratitude for the FCT Administration’s engagement and commitment to enhancing the market’s condition. Uba assured their full cooperation in this massive cleanup effort, acknowledging its long-term benefits.
However, what followed today has left many traders in shock. As the demolition commenced in the popular Kilishi market within Area 1, Abuja, several traders seemed unprepared for the drastic action taken by the Nyesom Wike-led FCT Administration. The notice of the impending demolition was issued just a day before during a meeting with traders and shop owners, primarily aimed at addressing the area’s congested and impassable roads.
Aminu Maradun, a Kilishi trader at the Area 1 shopping complex, expressed bewilderment at the sudden demolition. He stated that they had been informed about cleaning up the area but not about demolishing the market. Maradun shared his astonishment upon arriving at the site on Monday morning to witness the demolition in full swing.
“I am surprised, I don’t know what is happening. They are demolishing the Kilishi market. They only came here yesterday and told us to shift our things because they wanted to do some work there, but they didn’t tell us they wanted to demolish the market. Only for them to come very early to demolish the place,” Maradun said.
This unexpected demolition has triggered disruptions and concerns among traders, raising questions about the clarity of communication and the potential impact of these changes on their businesses and livelihoods.