Traders who were forced out of the Police Officers’ Wives Association Shopping Complex in Computer Village, Ikeja, Lagos, continue to face financial hardships a year after their shops were demolished by the Nigeria Police Force.
The chairman of the Computer Dealer Association (POWA Phase II), Tayo Shittu, shared in an interview that members of the association are still struggling to recover from their losses and are seeking justice.
Appealing to authorities and the public for support, the chairman of the affected traders highlighted the challenges they have faced since the demolition.
The traders expressed outrage over the demolition, labeling it as cruel and heartless, especially since it occurred while many property owners were away for the holidays.
The Nigeria Police Force spokesperson, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, defended the demolition, stating that it was necessary to make way for a new shopping complex for police officers’ wives and relatives.
Shittu recounted the traumatic experience of the demolition, emphasizing the loss of property and goods belonging to the traders at the plaza.
The chairman of the Computer Dealer Association (POWA Phase I), Okeke Ifeanyi, also expressed disappointment in the lack of due process surrounding the demolition.
Efforts by the affected traders to engage with the police have been met with resistance and dishonesty, according to Ifeanyi.
Demanding justice, fairness, and compensation for their losses, the traders remain resolute in seeking restitution for the damages caused by the demolition.
At the time of reporting, there was no response from Adejobi regarding the issue of compensating traders for their losses.