The Onitsha North Local Government Council has begun demolishing illegal structures at the Onitsha Main Market in Anambra State. The exercise started on Sunday, March 1, 2026, after earlier notices were given to traders and occupants of the affected areas.
According to information released by the state’s new media platform, the action is aimed at restoring order in the busy commercial centre and returning the market to its original layout. The council said the move would help improve trading activities and reduce congestion within the market.
Before the demolition began, the council had issued an official notice dated February 26 through the Office of the Mayor. The notice reminded owners and occupants of unapproved structures located at Park 1, Park 2, and Park 3 that the grace period granted to them had ended.
The Mayor and Chairman of Onitsha North Local Government, Anthony Nwora, had earlier approved a 14-day notice which expired on February 14, 2026. Following appeals from the affected traders, the deadline was extended by another 14 days, with the final date set for February 28, 2026.
The council made it clear that enforcement would begin immediately after the expiration of the extension. Traders were advised to remove their goods and personal belongings from the structures before the demolition date to avoid losses.
Onitsha Main Market, located in one of the largest commercial cities in southeastern Nigeria, has long struggled with overcrowding and the spread of unapproved buildings.
The local government said the present action is part of efforts to restore proper order and ensure smoother business operations within the market.