The Adamawa State Commissioner for Commerce, Trade, and Industries, Ishaya John Dabari, has clarified that traders affected by the ongoing demolition at Jimeta Ultra Modern Market were duly warned and given reasonable notice before the exercise commenced.
Dabari, who inspected the demolition alongside the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Saso Benson Ali, and other senior officials, told journalists on Wednesday that there will be no compensation for affected traders since the structures being removed violated the market’s original master plan.
He explained that the exercise, ordered by Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, is being carried out in collaboration with the Urban Planning Department and fully supported by security agencies.
According to him, traders had blocked several entrances to the market, leaving only two gates accessible. This, he said, disrupted vehicular movement, discouraged customers, caused some traders to lose business, and led to significant revenue losses for government.
“No trader with a legally acquired shop has been affected by this demolition. We held several meetings and consultations with the traders before the exercise. They were duly informed, alerted, and given ample publicity. Therefore, we expect full compliance,” Dabari stated.
He added that the market will remain closed beyond the earlier stipulated period until the demolition is completed. While admitting that government revenues will be temporarily affected, he stressed that the exercise is critical to restoring order and ensuring long-term development.
Dabari assured that all market facilities disrupted by illegal occupants will be restored. He also revealed that a new design and security strategy are being developed to ensure that “security will no longer be business as usual” in the market.