Cattle Dealers Challenge Abia Government’s Market Demolition Plan in Court

An Abia State High Court sitting at Isuochi is set to commence a hearing on March 13, 2024, in a suit filed by cattle dealers and market residents to stop the state government from going ahead with its plan to remodel the Umuchieze Garki Cattle Market.

The government’s decision to end the practice of cattle dealers and their families living inside the market has led to the legal challenge.

The suit, filed by 12 individuals including Sarkin Zango, Hussaini Muhammad, and Buba Kedemure, seeks an interlocutory injunction to prevent the government from carrying out the demolition of residential houses inside the market, pending the hearing and determination of the case.

The case was filed following a warning notice from the Umunneochi Local Government’s Town Planning Authority, which is prepared to begin the demolition of residential buildings within the market.

Citing security issues, the Abia government decided to remodel the cattle market and make it non-residential last October.

This decision has since caused tension between the cattle dealers and the government.

Defendants in the suit include the state Commissioner for Lands, Chaka Chukwumerije; Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Ikechukwu Uwanna; Chairman of Umunneochi Local Government, Ndubuisi Ike; and the state Commissioner of Police.

The court’s decision on the interlocutory injunction could have a significant impact on the market and its residents.