The Amuwo Odofin Local Government is working on redevelopment plans that may involve temporarily relocating the Agboju market.
According to reports, traders at the market have been in a long standing dispute with the Federal Housing Authority over the ownership of the land, with the FHA wanting to develop the area.
The FHA has been periodically asking the task force to remove the traders, citing that the land is part of the buffer zones of Festac Town, not meant for permanent structures. However, the traders have been resisting the move, arguing that they have been operating in the market for over 40 years and that the FHA’s actions would lead to loss of livelihood for millions of people who depend on the market.
A possible solution being explored is the relocation of the traders to alternative locations, including the 23 Road market or other nearby markets. The market leader, Mrs. Osinatu Adebayo, has urged the FHA and Amuwo Odofin Local Government to provide a space that the traders can easily access, emphasizing that the traders are willing to move but need a viable alternative.
“We are willing to move but we need a space that we can easily access,” Mrs. Adebayo said. The FHA has allocated space for the market at Sixth Avenue in Festac Town, but the traders have not been able to gain access to the land.
The dispute is ongoing, with the traders seeking intervention from the government to resolve the issue. The Amuwo Odofin Local Government has emphasized the need for dialogue and collaboration in resolving the dispute.
The redevelopment plans have sparked concerns among traders and stakeholders, who are worried about the potential impact on their livelihoods. The traders have expressed fears that the relocation could lead to a loss of customers and revenue.
The Amuwo Odofin Local Government and FHA are yet to comment on the matter. However, the situation remains tense, with the traders determined to protect their interests.