Source: Ebenezer Madugu
Some traders at the Makola Market in Accra have threatened to embark on a demonstration tomorrow over what they describe as attempts by city authorities to force them out of the area without proper relocation arrangements.
According to the traders, they were initially served a one-month notice by the Mayor to vacate the premises to make way for a redevelopment project. However, they claim the situation has worsened in recent days after fences were mounted around parts of the market, pits dug within the area, and electricity supply disconnected.
The traders argue that the issue is currently before the court and insist that authorities should not proceed with any eviction exercise until the legal process is concluded.
Speaking to Atinka TV, some of the affected traders expressed frustration over the situation, saying the planned eviction could severely affect their livelihoods.
“We are not saying the development should not happen, but the authorities must first show us where we are going before driving us away,” one trader said.
Another trader also alleged that access routes to the market have been blocked, making it difficult for customers to patronise their businesses.
“Our businesses are suffering already because customers cannot easily access the place. We are pleading with the government to intervene before things get out of hand,” the trader added.
The traders are therefore calling on the government and city authorities to provide them with a suitable alternative location before any demolition or eviction exercise is carried out.
