The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), a prominent civil rights advocacy group, has condemned the demolition of residential houses in Enugu City and the ancient market in Nsukka by Governor Peter Mbah’s administration. HURIWA criticized these actions, stating they are irresponsible, insensitive, and unconscionable, especially since the governor was elected by the people whose homes are now being destroyed for bus park projects.
The group argued that there are ample unused lands in Enugu State that could be acquired for these projects without displacing thousands of residents and traders. They described the demolitions as a form of collective punishment and questioned the governor’s motives, suggesting he might be retaliating against an electorate that he felt did not support him.
HURIWA pointed out from every conceivable observation that landlords and tenants of Amesi Street in Abakpa Nike, Enugu, have pleaded with Governor Mbah to halt the planned demolition of about 30 residential buildings, many of which are multi-story structures. “These buildings were marked for demolition by the Enugu East Town Planning Authority, giving residents only 72 hours to vacate.
“Reportedly, Mr. Innocent Okolie, a tenant, expressed concern over the plight of predominantly retired civil and public servants who would be left without alternative accommodation or compensation. He urged the governor to ensure due process is followed and to consult with those affected to agree on a reasonable timeline if relocation is necessary.
“Similarly, traders at the Ogige Market in Nsukka, associated with the University of Nigeria, were seen urgently evacuating their goods to comply with a sudden 72-hour notice,” HURIWA emphasized the economic importance of markets over motor parks, arguing that markets provide more employment and benefits to the community.
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The rights group called on Governor Mbah to reconsider his approach, suggesting that upgrading existing markets and introducing modern infrastructure would be more beneficial. They urged the people of Enugu to protest these anti-people policies and seek peaceful legal redress, criticizing opposition politicians for their lack of intervention.
