As part of efforts to improve on the aesthetics of the Bayelsa State capital, Yenagoa and ease traffic build up on the road leading to the state-owned Cargo Airport at Ammassoma, the Government has carried out a demolition exercise of the popular Tombia market located around the Etegwe axis of the metropolis.
According to eyewitnesses, the demolition team escorted by a joint team of policemen and soldiers carrying fierce-looking dogs began the destruction of shops, caravan and other illegal structures during the early part of Sunday morning.
When ait.live visited where the market once stood, some traders were seen trying to salvage whatever they could find from the heaps of debris.
Some of them lamented that the demolition exercise took them by surprise and therefore gave them no chance to rescue anything of value.
The demolition exercise affected most sections of the market, including the abbatoir, vegetables, fruits, frozen foods spots and motor parks.
This is not the first time authorities in Bayelsa State would be demolishing the Tombia market, which they insists was operating illegally.
In a chat, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Daniel Alabrah said there was no pressure before now to stop traders from using the place as a market, but the situation changed owing to expected increase in traffic that would be generated with the commencement of operations by the airport whose access and exit is on the same route with the market.
According to Alabrah, several notices have been served on the traders to vacate but they stubbornly refused to comply, insisting that the State Government provides an alternative place for them to do their business.
Meanwhile as traders count their losses , some individuals have raised concerns over the possible negative social implications the development may generate, as many people who earn a living in the area which is a commercial and transportation hub have suddenly been left without a means of livelihood.
Also Read: Bayelsa government gives roads leading to cargo airport facelift
All efforts to get a reaction from the Ministries of Lands and Survey as well as Trade and Investment have proved abortive as at the time of filing this report.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
