UMUAHIA TIMBER MARKET TRADERS PROTEST ALLEGED ARSON THREATS, URGE GOVERNOR OTTI’S INTERVENTION. (PHOTOS).

 Umuahia Timber Market Traders Protest Alleged Arson Threats, Urge Governor Otti’s Intervention

Tensions escalated at the Umuahia Industrial Market in Ahiaeke Ndume as traders from the First Line Timber Shade Section staged a peaceful protest at Governor Alex Otti’s country home in Nvosi, Isialangwa South LGA, on Tuesday, June 17, 2025. The traders are seeking urgent intervention from the governor over alleged threats by the Umuchukwu community in Ihie Ndume to burn down over 200 lock-up shops in the market.

The protesters, led by Pastor Daniel Obi, expressed alarm over a quit notice issued by the community, which claims ownership of the market land and has threatened arson if the traders do not vacate. Obi emphasized that the traders possess valid allocation papers issued by the Abia State Government, asserting their legal right to the land. He noted that the land was acquired by the state during the military administration of Group Captain Frank Ajobena, with compensation paid to the community. Additional compensation was reportedly paid during former Governor TA Orji’s administration.

“We are not squatters. We acquired this space legally from the government. If the community has issues, they should approach the government, not threaten to burn our shops,” Obi stated, appealing to Governor Otti, whom he described as a “listening governor,” to intervene swiftly to avert economic losses and potential unrest.

Mr. James Onyema, Chairman of the First Line Building Section, warned that inaction could lead to the market suffering the same fate as other sections where traders lost shops due to unresolved disputes. He expressed confidence in Otti’s administration to provide a lasting solution.

Retired police officer and shop owner, CSP Austin Nwosu, highlighted that under the Land Use Act, all land belongs to the government. He questioned the community’s claim of a court judgment from Umunneochi, noting that the market falls under Umuahia’s jurisdiction. “Our shops are our livelihood. We cannot allow anyone to destroy them,” Nwosu declared.

Responding on behalf of the government, Mr. Uche Nwosu, Chief Protocol Officer to the Governor, assured the traders that their concerns would be promptly conveyed to Governor Otti. He urged them to remain calm, expressing optimism for an amicable resolution.

The traders, whose livelihoods depend on the market, await the state government’s response to prevent a potential crisis and ensure peace in the Umuahia Industrial Market.

More photos below.