Traders, ACTDA Officials Clash over Illegal Structures Demolition in Anambra

By Praise Chinecherem

Some groups of youths in connivance with petty traders yesterday clashed with officials of the Awka Capital Territory Development Authority (ACTDA) on major enforcement exercise in Awka the state capital.

The angry youths, mostly in their late twenties and thirties, armed with stones, bottles and sticks attacked both the agency officials and men of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corp (NSCDC) attached to ensure smooth and peaceful enforcement exercise.

Our correspondent however gathered that the protesters were however overpowered by the NSCDC officials to create a safe atmosphere for the ACTDA officials to carry out their duty which record massive success.

The exercise, first for the year 2024 which witnessed destruction of goods worth millions of naira, covered some areas in the town included Unizik-Isuaniocha dual carriage road, Club Road, Regina Ceali Road.

Recall that Management of ACTDA had repeatedly issued several warnings, giving those erecting shanties and displaying goods along the road and under high tension enough time to stop the unlawful activities contributing in defacing the Capital City.

The authority reaffirmed her commitment towards continuos onslaught against street traders who insist on displaying their wares at prohibited locations, thereby causing gridlocks within the city.

It warned violators to desist forthwith or face more daring consequences.