Traders Forced to Vacate Market Amidst Land Grabbing Concerns

Traders in the popular phone and digital market known as Tarmac in the Panseke area of Abeokuta, Ogun State, were shocked on Friday morning when heavily armed policemen stormed the market and ordered them to vacate the premises. The traders were informed that there was a court order for them to leave, a notice they claimed they had not received.

This incident has caused confusion and apprehension amongst the traders and has put their businesses at risk. There have been recurring cases of land grabbers attempting to force them out of the market. Unfortunately, previous instances were allegedly settled through negotiations with the market leaders, leaving the traders concerned about the future of their livelihoods.

A trader named Akeem Oyeyemi stated that the police arrived early in the morning, around 5 am, with about 200 policemen and 20 cars. The traders were directed to gather at the Olubara’s palace, and upon returning to the market, they were shown a court order to lock up the premises. However, the traders claimed they had not received any prior notice of the court order, leaving them shocked and perplexed.

In an attempt to resolve the situation, the traders requested permission to open their stores. However, the police began shooting, causing panic and forcing everyone to flee for safety. As of now, the traders have been unable to reopen their shops, further affecting their already vulnerable businesses.

Efforts to reach the chairman of the market association, Ifebola Togunwa, for his response were unsuccessful. The Ogun State Police Command Public Relations Officer, Omolola Odutola, was also contacted but has not yet responded.

This incident raises concerns about the alleged collaboration between policemen and land grabbers in Ogun State. The Ogun State House of Assembly had recently accused the police of illegally arresting and detaining innocent residents in connivance with land grabbers. The Speaker of the Assembly, Olakunle Oluomo, appealed to the Inspector General of Police to intervene in these unlawful arrests and detentions.

It is imperative that the authorities thoroughly investigate these allegations, protect the rights and livelihoods of the traders, and ensure that justice is served. Land grabbing issues must be tackled to create a safe and secure environment for businesses to thrive.

Source: No source provided.