Business

See Reasons Kano Government Sacks 5,000 Traders from Market

Published by Tope Fakinlede on June 12th, 2024.

See Reasons Kano Government Sacks 5,000 Traders from Market

Over 5,000 traders around Masallacin Idi in Kano metropolis face displacement after the Kano State Urban Planning and Development Authority (KNUPDA) issued them an eviction notice.

The traders, who have 48 hours to vacate the area along IBB Way, are now grappling with the potential loss of their businesses. Yakubu Muhammad, the traders’ chairman, expressed concern about the displacement, noting that the area was allocated to them 18 years ago by the late Galadima of Kano, Alhaji Tijjani Hashim, through the Emirate Council.

Muhammad emphasized that the allocation was initially made to curb criminal activities in the area and that subsequent administrations had allowed the traders to continue their operations there. “Many of us are young people whose livelihoods depend on these businesses. Removing us from this location could create significant unrest,” he said.

The traders question the decision to evict them, highlighting their contributions to the state’s economy and calling on the government to reconsider. “We supported this government and voted for it in the 2023 elections. Our request is simply to continue our businesses at Masallacin Idi,” Muhammad added.

Governor Yusuf has been urged to intervene to prevent the displacement. Sa’adu Hamisu Dogonnama, Managing Director of Kantin Kwari Market, has promised to advocate for the traders.

An anonymous KNUPDA source confirmed the eviction order, stating that the traders had not obtained the necessary permissions to operate in the area, rendering their activities illegal.

This eviction notice comes as a further blow to traders who are still recovering from the demolition of shops at Masallacin Idi earlier in the current administration.