Rising Tensions in Yola as Adamawa Government Pulls Down Over 2,000 Illegal Shops in Jimeta Market

The demolition exercise carried out by the Adamawa State Government at the Jimeta Ultra-Modern Market in Yola has sparked widespread tension and mixed reactions among traders and residents of the area.

The action, which commenced on Tuesday, was a direct implementation of Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri’s directive. The directive, contained in an official letter dated September 12, 2025, was issued by the Adamawa State Urban and Regional Planning Development Authority (ASUPDA). Authorities explained that several traders had erected unauthorized “temporary shops” within the market, blocking access roads, creating congestion, and distorting the approved master plan of the ultra-modern market.

During the demolition, many traders and customers were seen expressing visible distress. While some residents commended the initiative, others condemned it, leaving opinions sharply divided.

Traders Decry Harsh Impact

Some traders such as Abubakar Sa’ad and Salomi Charles strongly criticized the government’s action. According to them, the demolition was carried out without granting them sufficient time to secure alternative spaces for their businesses. They stressed that the move came at a period when most Nigerians are already struggling with the economic downturn.

They described the government’s decision as “harsh and inconsiderate” and appealed for intervention, urging the administration to provide alternative trading spaces for displaced shop owners.

Government Defends the Action

Meanwhile, the Commissioner for Commerce, Trade and Industry, Dr. Ishaya John Dabari, defended the demolition exercise. He explained that the enforcement was necessary to restore the market’s original structural design and ensure sanity within the commercial hub. Dabari emphasized that only traders who illegally constructed shops outside the master plan were affected.

He added that no form of compensation was offered, as the shops were erected illegally. However, he admitted that both the government and traders had suffered short-term revenue losses due to the operation.

“Although there is an immediate loss of revenue for both parties, the demolition exercise will help restore order and ultimately boost sustainable revenue generation in the long run,” Dabari stated.

Over 2,000 Shops Demolished

Also weighing in, the Chairman of the Restoration Committee and Director of the State Urban and Regional Planning Board, T.P. John Zutuwa, disclosed that more than 2,000 illegal shops and structures had already been demolished at the market, with additional structures yet to be removed.

He firmly stressed that:

“All developments not in line with the approved master plan must go.”

The development continues to generate heated debates in Yola, with displaced traders demanding urgent intervention, while the government insists that the exercise is critical to bringing back order and ensuring the structural integrity of the Jimeta Ultra-Modern Market.