Vendors at the Mowe/Ofada market within the Obafemi Owode Local Government area of Ogun State have criticized the state government for an unannounced demolition exercise. The traders report that merchandise valued at more than N500 million was lost during the destruction.
The event occurred at approximately 2:00 a.m. on Friday, catching the shop owners off guard before they could reach their stalls. Mrs. Kabira Ajiboye, a spokesperson for the group, stated that no official warning was provided prior to the action. She recalled that while Ministry of Urban and Physical Planning officials had previously threatened a demolition in 2023, they had halted the plan after learning that rent had been paid to local authorities.
The traders expressed significant distress, noting that the timing of the demolition prevented them from salvaging any goods. Many individuals now face financial ruin, as they relied on loans to fund their small businesses. They are calling on Governor Dapo Abiodun to provide a new location so they can resume operations.
When reached for comment, Tunji Odunlami, the Ogun State Commissioner for Urban and Physical Planning, chose not to speak on the matter. The state government has not yet released an official statement, and the specific claims regarding the value of the destroyed goods remain unverified.
