Quit notice: Panic as council officials visit Bukuru market

There was visible panic among traders at Bukuru market as local council officials and security operatives visited to commence demolition of stalls following a quit notice  issued to the occupants. The Jos South Local Government Council had in July issued a quit notice to traders operating in the popular market. The issuance of the quit […]

There was visible panic among traders at Bukuru market as local council officials and security operatives visited to commence demolition of stalls following a quit notice  issued to the occupants.

The Jos South Local Government Council had in July issued a quit notice to traders operating in the popular market.

The issuance of the quit notice, which the government said was to enable it carry out the renovation of the structures at the market, had generated controversy and tension in the market.

The situation heightened this week following the visit before some members of the community intervened to bring the atmosphere under control.

Benue/Plateau Trust had in July reported that traders at the old Bukuru market (which was established in 1938) raised concerns over the quit notice given to occupants saying the authorities have not shown sincerity in their plan to rebuild the place as promised.

They also lamented that the government had not made any alternative provision for them before issuing them quit notice and that there is a need for openness on the part of the government.

A community leader, Isah Abubakar, told our correspondent that due process is yet to be followed by the local government officials, adding that the market and community leaders were not carried along in the planned demolition.

He said they hoped to find an amicable solution to the matter and urged the traders and members of the community to remain calm.

Calls and text messages sent to the Acting Chairman of Jos South Local Government council, Gyang Tok, for his reaction were not responded to.