ALABA MARKET DEMOLITION, ATTACKS: Northern Youth Peace Initiative Demands Full Compensation to NT

By Ibrahim ABUBAKAR, Yola

ALABA MARKET DEMOLITION, ATTACKS: Northern Youth Peace Initiative Demands Full Compensation to NT

By Ibrahim ABUBAKAR, Yola

The Northern Youth Peace and Reconciliation Initiative of Nigeria has urged the Lagos State Government to take swift and decisive measures to address the plight of Northern Traders NT affected by recent demolitions and attacks at Alaba International Market, Lagos.

In an open letter addressed to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the National Chairman of the group, A. A. Lawan Uba, said Northern traders have remained a vital part of Nigeria’s economic backbone, contributing significantly through commerce, trade, and tax revenues. He warned that continued harassment, insecurity, and unfair treatment of traders—particularly Northerners—pose a threat not only to individual livelihoods but also to the overall national economy.

However, the group condemned the recent incident at Alaba International Market, where several Northern traders were reportedly attacked during and after the demolition exercise, with shops vandalized and goods worth billions of naira destroyed. Uba described the violence as “a painful reminder of the insecurity and risks faced daily by traders in Lagos.”

The group further outlined key demands and compensation and restlement to the Lagos State Government, which includes

Strengthening security measures in major markets, especially where Northern traders operate.

Ensuring justice for victims of the demolition and attacks, with full compensation for losses incurred.

The group leadership stressed that,

establishing a framework to protect traders’ investments and prevent harassment or destruction of goods. As well as Introducing welfare and support schemes to empower traders and sustain their economic contributions in the state hencefouth.

Uba further cautioned that failure to address the grievances could disrupt the flow of goods and essential commodities from the North to Lagos and other southern states. 

He stressed that preserving Nigeria’s regional interdependence is crucial to safeguarding national unity and development.

According to him, the Lagos state government insists the demolition exercise was carried out in the interest of public safety, lack of adequate communication and the perceived targeting of certain cultural groups have fueled widespread dissatisfaction.

He concluded that, ongoing dialogues between government officials and stakeholders are expected to provide a more inclusive approach to urban development and restore confidence among affected traders.