From Femi Oyelola in Kaduna
In the bustling city of Kaduna, the community of traders from different markets has taken to the streets, demanding justice and intervention from Governor Uba Sani after their stores were demolished by former Governor Nasir El‑Rufai.
The protest, marked by chants and placards, reflected the deep frustration of traders who have lost their livelihoods.
The traders claim they were not given adequate notice or compensation, leaving them without a source of income.
Hasumi Yakubu, a trader who led the protest, said, “We were given a few day’s notice to vacate, and then bulldozers came in and destroyed everything. I lost all my goods, and I have been struggling to feed my family since then.”
The traders alleged that the demolition was not just about urban renewal but a plot to reallocate the stores to supporters of El‑Rufai
“After the demolition, we saw new structures coming up, and it’s clear they are meant for El‑Rufai’s people,” said Mallam Ibrahim, another affected trader.
The impact on the traders has been devastating. Many have been forced to hawk their goods in the streets, facing harassment from authorities and exposure to harsh weather conditions.
“We are suffering. Our children are out of school because we can’t afford the fees. We need help,” said Aisha, a mother of three.
The traders’ association has written several letters to the state government, seeking compensation and reinstatement, but they claim their pleas have fallen on deaf ears.
