The authorities of Onitsha South Local Government Area in Anambra State have carried out a demolition exercise to clear illegal structures and shanties along the bank of the River Niger, near Niger Street, Fegge, Onitsha. The operation, initiated on Sunday and continued on Monday, targeted machine houses, stores, and sand beaches used by sand miners and traders in the area.
The demolition impacted numerous equipment houses, shops, and business premises, marking the second major demolition in the area within a month, following the removal of over 2,300 shops previously. Approximately 4,000 sand miners and traders were displaced by this recent action, significantly affecting their livelihoods.
Chairman Emeka Orji led the demolition, joined by over 15 operatives of the Anambra State Vigilante Service. Orji reiterated the state government's commitment to reclaiming the land and clearing it of illegal structures. Despite warnings to vacate the area, many affected individuals did not take the alerts seriously.
During the exercise, some affected sand miners and traders were seen hastily removing their equipment and commodities, including sand drilling machines and various goods. The demolition also impacted a fuel station, sparking agitation among the owners. Vigilante operatives intervened, dispersing agitators with sporadic shots. This demolition has left many feeling jobless and homeless, with hundreds of shops and businesses destroyed.
