The Onitsha North Local Government has commenced the demolition of illegal structures at the Onitsha Main Market in Anambra State. The council said the enforcement followed the expiration of multiple notices issued to affected traders and is aimed at restoring the market’s approved masterplan.
The demolition exercise began on Sunday, March 1, 2026, targeting unauthorized structures at Park 1, Park 2 and Park 3 within the market complex. Authorities stated that occupants had been duly informed ahead of the enforcement date.
In a formal notice dated February 26, 2026, the Office of the Mayor of Onitsha North Local Government reminded traders that an earlier 14-day demolition notice had expired on February 14, 2026. The council said the deadline was extended by another 14 days at the request of the affected occupants, shifting the final expiration date to February 28, 2026.
The statement, signed by the Mayor, Hon. Anthony Nwora, indicated that demolition would proceed anytime from March 1, 2026, following the lapse of the extended grace period. Traders were advised to remove all goods and valuables from the affected structures before enforcement commenced.
Local authorities said the exercise is intended to reclaim designated spaces within the market and improve orderliness to enhance trading activities.
Onitsha Main Market, located in Onitsha, remains one of the largest commercial centres in southeastern Nigeria. The market has faced longstanding challenges related to congestion and the proliferation of unapproved structures, prompting periodic regulatory actions by government officials.
