Onitsha traders petition IGP over alleged threats, plaza demolition

By Jude Opara

A group of traders in Onitsha, Anambra state, has appealed to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Tajudeen Disu to investigate alleged threats, intimidation and the demolition of business premises because of leadership dispute and ownership of a market plaza.

Leader of the traders, Chief Okey Muojekwu who spoke on behalf of his colleagues, said they had endured constant harassment and threats for over two years, alleging that some individuals had used their connections with security operatives to harass them.

Muojekwu said the appeal has become necessary because the situation had adversely affected their businesses and also forced members of their families fearing for their life.

He alleged that the plaza where they conducted their businesses was in 2025 demolished, and that the incident has worsened and disrupted their means of livelihood.

The leader further alleged that four buildings, including properties at numbers 77 and 79, were demolished, affecting people who had invested in different lines of businesses there.

Muojekwu equally claimed that some individuals had forged property documents to change the ownership name from Osumakan Model Ventures, with a call on all relevant authorities to investigate and establish who actually owns the property in question.

The traders also accused the police personnel, including officers attached to a Special Anti-narcotics Command in Onitsha, of collusion in the alleged intimidation and harassment.

Muojekwu added that he was recently attacked by suspected thugs whom he claimed stabbed him with a knife, adding that after he managed to escape, he reported the incident to the police, but no effective action had been taken against those responsible.

He also raised concerns over an alleged incident involving a man identified as Chris Okon, who was reportedly taken away alongside a woman after some individuals allegedly beat him at his residence.

The traders appealed to the IGP to investigate the allegations, protect them from further attacks and ensure that anyone found culpable was made to face the law.

Giving more insight, Mr Tochukwu Umeh, Chairman of the Market Association, said the dispute was also linked to disagreements over the removal of some market leaders after their tenure elapsed.

Umeh alleged that some individuals continued to occupy leadership positions after the government removed them, claiming that the state government had no right to remove leaders elected by market members.

Patron of the market, Mr Onyeka Oguejiofor, alleged that some individuals had taken over shops without following due process and were attempting to force out recognised leaders and traders, to fulfill their selfish ambitions.

Oguejiofor said some traders who were removed from their positions or threatened with eviction without formal notice or communication have
reported the matter to the Commissioner of Police and the Police Public Relations Officer, but they are yet to receive any solution.

According to him, some individuals were arrested and detained for about a week before being released, after which they allegedly resumed the activities complained about.

The traders appealed for a peaceful resolution of the dispute, protection of their rights and the opportunity to resume normal business activities as free citizens in a free country.