admin
The Onitsha North Local Government Council has commenced the demolition of illegal structures at the Onitsha Main Market, saying the exercise is aimed at restoring the original masterplan and improving trading activities in the commercial hub.
This was disclosed in a post shared by Anambra State New Media on Sunday, which stated that the crackdown had begun at the market.
“Crackdown: Onitsha North LGA begins demolition of illegal structures at Onitsha Main Market. Occupants were duly notified. The mission is to reclaim the original masterplan and restore order for seamless ‘trade and shop’ activities,” the post read.
The development follows an earlier notice issued by the council through the Office of the Mayor, dated February 26, notifying affected traders and occupants of the planned demolition.
In the statement signed by the Mayor/Chairman of Onitsha North Local Government, Hon. Anthony Nwora, the council reminded owners and occupants of illegal structures located at Park 1, Park 2 and Park 3 of Main Market, Onitsha, that the grace period granted to them had expired.
The notice, titled “Final Reminder on Demolition of Illegal Structures at Main Market, Onitsha,” stated that an initial 14-day notice had been given to the affected occupants, which expired on February 14, 2026.
According to the council, the deadline was further extended by another 14 days at the request of the occupants, with the new expiration date fixed for February 28, 2026.
“The owners/occupants of all the illegal structures located at Park 1, Park 2 and Park 3 of Main Market, Onitsha are hereby reminded that after the 14 days earlier notice of demolition of the illegal structures given to them which expired on 14th February 2026, which was extended based on their request by another 14 days which will expire on 28th February, 2026, the Onitsha North Local Government will carry out the demolition of the illegal structures anytime from Sunday 1st March 2026,” the statement read.
The council further advised affected traders to evacuate their belongings ahead of the enforcement date.
“All those who still have any valuables in those structures are advised to remove all such items before Sunday 1st March 2026,” the notice added.
The Main Market, located in Onitsha, one of the largest commercial cities in southeastern Nigeria, has over the years faced challenges related to congestion and unapproved structures.
