A former governor of Kano State, Engineer Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, and the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), have decried the recent demolition of the historic Alaba Rago Market in Lagos.
The market, regarded as a key commercial hub for Northern traders in the state, was demolished last week by officials of the Lagos State Government.
Traders lamented that they lost goods and property worth billions of naira to the demolition.
This marks the second demolition exercise to hit the 45-year-old food, livestock, and scrap metal market in recent times.
In May 2024, officials of the Lagos State Taskforce had stormed the market, stating that the operation was aimed at clearing shanties and illegal structures.
Kwankwaso, who visited the market to engage the affected traders and the state authorities, emphasised the importance of protecting livelihoods and ensuring that affected business owners are supported during the recovery and rebuilding process.
He said his visit was to ensure that a solution is found which will protect the interests of Northern traders in Lagos.
“I am here to ensure that a solution is found which will protect the interests of the people of Northern Lagos. The traders’ welfare is a priority, and we must work together to restore their businesses safely and efficiently,” he said.
The ACF described the market demolition as a major setback for thousands of traders whose livelihoods have been disrupted.
In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Prof. T. A. Muhammad-Baba, the forum noted that while no lives were lost, the destruction of businesses and property has left many families in distress.
“Expectedly, the demolition of the historic market has resulted in losses of businesses and property, with disruption to the means of livelihoods and other woes for thousands of people,” he said.
The ACF sympathised with victims of the demolition, urging resilience in overcoming the crisis. “Hopefully, the usual famed stoic resilience of our industrious people will come to play in helping those affected to cope with losses arising from the demolition,” Prof. Muhammad-Baba said.
The forum appealed for immediate government intervention to assist victims. “We call on the Lagos State and Federal authorities to extend aid to the victims of the incident and to help all to rebuild their lives,” he added.
While acknowledging Alaba Rago’s historic significance as a hub for livestock business in Lagos, the forum expressed optimism that the market will eventually bounce back stronger.
COURTESY: DailyTrust
