While the majority of Nigerians face formidable socio-economic challenges, the Kaduna State Urban and Planning Development Authority (KASUPDA) has embarked on demolishing ‘illegal structures.’ This action, though legal, has come at a critical time when victims and other Nigerians are struggling with hyperinflation and other economic woes.
Concerned residents and stakeholders argue that the timing of these demolitions is far from appropriate. A cross-section of the victims and residents expressed their grievances to PathwayNews Kaduna, describing the demolition as “adding salt to an injury.” They fear such actions could exacerbate insecurity in the state and the country at large. “Governments should always think of improving the living standards of Nigerians and not further punishing them,” one resident commented.
Malam Aliyu Sahabi, a former shop owner at the popular NAF Junction, shared his confusion and distress, having operated there for nearly two decades. He voiced concerns about the potential negative impact on the youth, who might turn to crime and anti-social activities as a result. Another victim, Hajiya Raliya Muhammad, called on the state government to provide alternative spaces for their trading activities.
KASUPDA, however, insists that the demolition is aimed at sanitizing the city and restoring its original master plan. In a press release titled “Commencement of the Removal of Temporary and Informal Activities in Kaduna Metropolis,” Assistant Director of the Public Affairs Unit, Nuhu Garba, outlined the affected areas, including NDA bus stop, U/Dosa area, Kawo area, and others.
Garba stated that the action followed public announcements, sensitization visits, and stakeholders’ engagement meetings to give affected individuals ample time to vacate. He highlighted the successful achievements in urban planning and city beautification so far, stressing that unauthorized shops, containers, kiosks, and signage posed environmental hazards, traffic congestion, and security threats.
Despite the authority’s justification, many victims have appealed to the government for alternative spaces to continue their legal business activities. Garba reiterated KASUPDA’s call for cooperation in ensuring urban cleanliness and a secure environment in the state.
