Illegal markets and shanties situated along the Karmo–Dei-Dei Road corridor have received a 24-hour demolition notice from the Department of Development Control, FCT Administration (FCTA).
Over 500 unauthorised structures have reportedly been earmarked for demolition. Garba Jibril, the department’s sector monitor and assistant director, stated on Monday that numerous notices have already been issued to the affected individuals. He mentioned that Mukhtar Galadima, the director of developmental control, held a meeting with stakeholders.
Jibril emphasised the necessity of the demolition, citing the obstruction caused by the structures leading to heavy traffic on the road. He also highlighted the environmental hazards posed by the activities of the shanties and illegal markets, as observed by the FCTA.
Moreover, it has been disclosed that the contract for the construction of the Life Camp – Dei-Dei Road has been awarded, but the presence of the illegal structures is hindering the contractors from commencing work.
He cautioned that those affected must adhere to the 24-hour deadline, as failure to comply will result in consequences. Jibril noted that a fully developed and equipped market known as Karmo market has been designated for the affected traders.
“But the traders have been reluctant to move.
“We have had several meetings with the relevant stakeholders including traditional leaders in the area to get them to move but they remained adamant.
“We equally held a meeting with the traders and the new market operators, who promised to give the traders some incentives to be able to accommodate them in both the informal and the main shops.
“We are hoping that after the demolition, there will be a successful relocation from the road corridor to the main market.
“This will not only maintain a serene environment but also ensure the free flow of traffic in the area,” Jibril said.