Residents and business owners at Bodija Plank Market in Ibadan find themselves in distress following the recent demolition by the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC).
The NRC justifies its actions by citing security threats, including the market’s alleged association with criminal activities and commercial sex operations.
According to Mr. Olawale Ayeni, the Public Relations Officer of NRC in the South-West, the corporation owns the land and acted upon a complaint from the Oyo State government received about three years ago.
The complaint stated that the market area constituted an environmental nuisance and posed a security threat to the surrounding area.
Ayeni further explains that the NRC served demolition notices to the affected victims. The corporation’s plan is to collaborate with private developers to remodel and construct modern shops and structures. Once completed, affected occupants can apply for these spaces.
The NRC claims to align with the Oyo State Government’s desire to eliminate breeding grounds for criminal activities and create an environment conducive to economic growth and sustainable development.
However, those affected by the demolition express their grievances, stating that the exercise caught them unawares.
They lament the loss of property worth millions of naira, as many were unable to remove their goods before the caterpillars and bulldozers arrived.
Mr. Idris Abdul Rahuf, the Secretary of the Hausa community in Bodija, laments the loss of property and means of livelihood, emphasizing that no prior notice of demolition was received from the NRC.
Business owners are not eager to relocate but hope for the NRC to provide them with an opportunity to rebuild and remodel the area.
Similarly, Alhaji Muhammed Dandaturaje, a member of the Hausa Community, appeals to the NRC to offer some relief to those affected, recognizing the enormity of their losses.
Two traders, Mrs. Wemimo Taiwo and Mrs. Olaitan Afolabi, share their stories of recently securing loans to stock their shops before the demolition.
They plead for compensation from both the NRC and the government. The community seeks understanding and support in the wake of this unexpected upheaval.
