Traders and squatters at the Old Timber Market, Wetheral Road, Owerri, face imminent eviction as the Imo State Government moves to demolish the area tomorrow, Tuesday, March 25, 2025.
The state, through the Owerri Capital Development Authority (OCDA), has issued multiple eviction notices, the latest being a 21-day ultimatum that has now expired. Despite the government’s official relocation of traders to Naze Industrial Market years ago, some have stubbornly refused to leave, prompting the planned demolition.
Speaking during a final visit, OCDA General Manager, Hon. Frank Nkem, reminded occupants of the urgency to vacate, emphasizing that the location had become a hub for criminal activities, including drug trafficking, gunrunning, and other illegal operations.
Authorities insist that the demolition is part of a broader effort to sanitize Owerri and curb insecurity, urging all affected persons to comply to avoid forceful eviction.
