The first phase of the demolition of Ekeoha Shopping Plaza, Aba, began today, September 19, 2024. This follows the flag-off of the remodeling project by Governor Alex Otti on August 8, 2024. The project, aimed at transforming the shopping center into a world-class facility with 24/7 power supply and elevators, is being carried out section by section to minimize disruption to traders.
During the flag-off, Governor Otti assured traders that provisions had been made for those affected by the first phase, offering them temporary locations until the completion of their new shops. Once the first section is completed, traders will return, and the next phase of reconstruction will begin.
However, last month, the project faced a significant hurdle. The Abia State High Court issued an order halting the remodeling after a lawsuit was filed by shop owners. The plaintiffs allege that the state government and Rhyno Homes and Properties Ltd entered into an illegal agreement to remodel the center without their consent. They also claim that the government’s relocation notice ignored their proposal to undertake the remodeling themselves.
Justice C.K. Nwankwo, presiding over the case, froze further action on the project, with a hearing scheduled for August 27, 2024. The legal battle has raised questions about property rights and urban development in Abia State.
Despite the ongoing court case, demolition activities have resumed today, as the state government pushes ahead with plans to rebuild the market.
