Members of the Fatima Baika Market in Katsina have raised concerns over the potential demolition of their stalls, claiming that the chairman of the Central Market Traders Association has instigated the Katsina State Government to take action against them.
Hikaya Newspaper reports that the controversy centers around approximately 60 shops built under the previous administration of Aminu Bello Masari.
During a press conference on Monday, April 21, 2025, traders expressed their dismay at the market chairman’s collaboration with the government, which they believe threatens their livelihoods. One trader lamented, “Anyone who runs a business here has no place to be proud of but here, and we have no one to rely on but God.” They criticized the chairman for failing to protect their interests since his election.
Alhaji Sabi’u Haruna, accused the current leadership of inciting opposition against them. He stated that the shops were legally constructed with government approval and expressed fear that the demolition would devastate their businesses. “A reliable source has confirmed to us that the leader of our group is trying to slander us before the Katsina State government,” he said.
Another trader, Alhaji Usman Tukur Mai Nama, emphasized that the land for the shops was acquired with the knowledge of the former government and constructed according to legal guidelines. He argued that the traders should not face threats of demolition, as they have established their businesses lawfully.
Yahaya Yusuf, a concerned trader, warned that demolishing the shops would have dire consequences for many families. “Many will go into debt and put their families in dire straits; therefore, we are calling on the Katsina State government to intervene to ensure justice for the affected traders,” he urged.
In response, the chairman of the Central Market Traders Association, Alhaji Usman Abubakar, defended his actions, claiming that the plots were not sold legally and its was sold before his tenure. He described the previous administration as a “tyrant government” and expressed confidence that the traders would be provided with alternative locations if their shops were demolished.
Abubakar dismissed the traders’ claims of legal ownership, asserting that the shops were built illegally and caused discomfort in the community. He stated, “We, the market leaders, did the right thing,” emphasizing the need for compliance with regulations.
Bello Sama’ila, a former secretary of the association, countered Abubakar’s claims, stating that all constructions were approved by the relevant authorities. He urged Governor Dikko Umar Radda to recognize the legality of the shops and the ownership documents held by the traders.
Comrade Yusuf Ahmad, Public Relations Officer of the Human Rights Network of Nigeria, Katsina State chapter, condemned the standoff between the chairman and the traders. He called for government intervention to resolve the dispute, warning that continued tensions could lead to economic stagnation in the community.
Ahmad concluded by urging the Katsina State government to reconsider any plans for demolition, emphasizing that such actions would harm local businesses and undermine economic growth. “This standoff should not be allowed to continue,” he said, highlighting the potential consequences for the traders and the wider community.