Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has triggered a major constitutional and humanitarian crisis by commencing the demolition of the historic Onitsha Main Market in the early hours of Sunday. This action was taken in direct defiance of an existing court order that explicitly barred the state government from demolishing the market pending the determination of a substantive lawsuit.
The move represents a brazen challenge to the judiciary and has plunged hundreds of traders into panic and uncertainty about their livelihoods. By noon on Sunday, significant destruction was already visible, with shops on Johnson Street and sections of the major structure known as Gwongworo being pulled down. The operation extended into the market's interior, indicating a large-scale demolition while legal proceedings were still active. This raises urgent, fundamental questions about the rule of law and the protection of property rights in Anambra State.
Traders' Harrowing Accounts of Extortion and Theft
Traders at the market have recounted disturbing experiences that suggest a breakdown of order. Okeke Akasim, an affected shop owner, stated he rushed to evacuate his wares at 2 a.m. upon hearing about the demolition. He reported that a security man stationed near the market demanded a N500 'settlement' fee before allowing him passage to his shop—an allegation pointing to possible extortion of vulnerable business owners during a crisis.
Another trader, who chose to remain anonymous, provided a further alarming account. He stated that in his presence, a vigilante operative sold the iron structure of his shop. Despite the trader's pleas, the operative justified the action by asking why the trader had not complied with an earlier order to remove wares within a 14-day period. This incident suggests potential abuse of power by non-state actors involved in the enforcement operation.
A Test for the Rule of Law
This incident transcends a simple urban development dispute. It sits at the intersection of executive power, judicial authority, and citizens' fundamental rights. The disregard for a court injunction sets a dangerous precedent and undermines public trust in legal protections for property and business. The coming days will be crucial as the traders' lawsuit proceeds and the state government is expected to respond to these serious allegations of misconduct during the demolition.
