Two Traders Dead, 27 Hospitalised Following Demolition at New Gbagi Market, Ibadan

Traders at the New Gbagi International Market, Ibadan, operating under the New Gbagi Petty Traders Association, have reported the loss of two members and the hospitalisation of 27 others following the demolition of their shops by the Oyo State Government.

The Chairman of the association, Engineer Kolawole Oyewole, disclosed this during an interview with Newsmen on Tuesday.

He expressed deep concern over the situation, which has had a devastating impact on the livelihoods of the traders.

According to Oyewole, the demolition, which began on Sunday, has taken a severe toll on the traders.

In addition to the two deaths and numerous hospitalisations, the destruction of their shops has left many without a means to support themselves and their families.

“Two of our members have lost their lives, and 27 others are currently hospitalised due to the shock and trauma caused by the demolition. Our means of livelihood have been destroyed,” Oyewole stated.

The traders, in response to the demolition, had earlier staged a peaceful protest at the palace of the Olubadan, appealing for his intervention to halt further destruction of their shops.

“We appeal to the Olubadan to help us stop the ongoing demolition. They should cease the destruction for proper discussions to take place.

The government should also compensate us for the damage done to our goods, and the remaining shops marked for demolition should be spared,” Oyewole added.

The chairman further clarified that the traders are representing themselves in their appeal, warning that no individual or group should claim to speak on their behalf without their consent.

“We are not represented by anyone else; we speak for ourselves.

We will be grateful if our demands are considered, and we hope for a peaceful resolution,” he said.

The demolition has stirred significant unrest within the trading community, with many calling on Governor Seyi Makinde to intervene and provide a solution that ensures the welfare of the traders is protected.