Adamawa Government’s Demolition at Jimeta Market Sparks Anger and Support Among Traders
Story written by Myra Chinonso September 18,2025
The exercise, which commenced on Tuesday, was carried out by the Adamawa State Urban and Regional Planning Development Authority (ASUPDA) following an instruction from Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri. A letter dated September 12, 2025, ordered the clearance of “temporary structures” allegedly blocking access roads and disrupting the market’s approved master plan.
While some residents welcomed the move as necessary to restore order, many traders expressed outrage, accusing the government of acting without sufficient notice or consideration for the economic hardship gripping the state.
Traders Lament Loss of Shops
Displaced shop owners like Abubakar Sa’ad and Salomi Charles criticized the demolition, arguing that they were not given enough time to seek alternative spaces. They described the action as “unfair and untimely,” calling on the government to provide new outlets where they could continue their businesses.
“This is too harsh at a time when people are already struggling to survive,” one trader said, warning that livelihoods have been destroyed overnight.
Government Defends Action
Defending the demolition, the Commissioner for Commerce, Trade and Industry, Dr. Ishaya John Dabari, insisted the exercise was aimed at restoring order and aligning the market with its original blueprint. He emphasized that only traders who illegally erected shops were affected and confirmed that no compensation would be paid.
“Both the government and traders lost revenue as a result of this exercise, but it was a sacrifice to ensure sustainable growth and proper planning,” Dabari explained.
Over 2,000 Illegal Shops Already Removed
Also addressing the issue, the Chairman of the Market Restoration Committee and Director of ASUPDA, T.P. John Zutuwa, disclosed that more than 2,000 illegal structures had already been demolished, with additional clearances still ongoing.
“Any development that does not align with the master plan must go,” Zutuwa declared.
Divided Opinions in Jimeta
The demolition has left Jimeta deeply divided. While some residents believe the move will improve market access and create a cleaner trading environment, others argue it has stripped struggling families of their only source of income.
The controversy underscores the tension between urban planning enforcement and the economic realities of everyday traders in Adamawa State.
