Nigerian Army Begins Demolition of Effurun Mammy, Tomatoes Markets

The demolition exercise began on Tuesday, October 13, amid protests by traders against the notice and the planned removal of structures in the affected areas.

The exercise, which affects commercial activities and residential areas around the 3 Battalion Army Barracks, is reportedly linked to security concerns and efforts to reclaim government land around the military facility.

While the Saturday notice triggered protests among traders, some residents confirmed that occupants had received previous notices concerning the removal of structures around the barracks.

The development also comes amid reports of alleged arms dealing within the markets.

A confidential source indicated that security operatives had previously raided locations in the area over suspected arms-related activities.

However, the circumstances surrounding the alleged raids and their connection to the ongoing demolition could not be independently verified.

The demolition has affected traders and residents living within the Mammy Market area, where commercial activities and residential accommodation coexist, raising concerns over displacement, disrupted livelihoods and the number of homes and shops affected.

The development has renewed attention on the longstanding land dispute involving the Nigerian Army and parts of the Uvwie Kingdom.

In February 2024, THISDAY reported that an Effurun High Court had nullified the purported acquisition of parts of Ohore land by the Army following a decade-long legal dispute.

However, the relationship between that judgment and the current demolition has not been established.

The number of structures marked for demolition and the full extent of its impact on residents and traders remain unclear.