The Nigerian Army has issued a quit notice to approximately 70 shop owners on Hussey Street in Yaba, Lagos, demanding that they vacate their premises by Friday, September 6. Failure to comply could result in the closure of their businesses.
Many of the affected traders have been operating in the area for over 20 years and have expressed frustration over the lack of progress in resolving the issue with the military hospital nearby. Their attempts to negotiate a resolution have been unsuccessful.
The shops in question are situated between the Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) gate and the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) building, extending up to the military hospital in Yaba.
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Traders allege that they have been subjected to extortion by military personnel. Ori Ezekiel, a representative of the traders, stated that the Army initially claimed the renovation was voluntary but has since imposed a deadline to vacate. He also mentioned that they were informed by the Army that the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) ordered the evacuation.
Another trader, who chose to remain anonymous, expressed concern about the abrupt notice and the lack of alternative arrangements for relocating their goods. This trader, who has been in business for nearly two decades, revealed that they pay a monthly fee and have never defaulted on payments.
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The traders are now calling for urgent assistance to facilitate their relocation before the imposed deadline. They suspect that the Army’s intention is to rebuild the shops but lack clarity on their next steps.