The government of Adamawa State is currently looking into claims of misconduct regarding shop assignments at the newly rebuilt Modibbo Adama Modern Market in Yola. Governor Ahmadu Fintiri opened the facility on July 14, which replaced the previous Yola Market that was destroyed in multiple fires.
Traders have voiced concerns that original shop owners were bypassed during the distribution of space. Chief Joab Sahma, the Commissioner for Commerce, Trade and Industries, indicated that market union heads may have altered beneficiary lists to favor people who did not previously hold shops. Although union leaders provided 303 names and the government added 47, many legitimate former tenants remain without a place.
Sahma noted that some individuals who received shops have admitted they were not original owners. To rectify this, the ministry has formed a verification panel led by the Permanent Secretary to find those who were unfairly excluded. Additionally, authorities are warning citizens about scammers, including one individual who reportedly absconded with 2.3 million Naira. Officials have also identified instances where people tried to claim shops by impersonating deceased merchants.
