By Tony Okafor, Awka
The Anambra Civil Society Network (ACSONet) has called on the State Government to exercise caution in the proposed regeneration of the Onitsha Main Market, stressing the need for broader consultation and a transparent framework before any irreversible action is taken.
In a statement issued on Friday by Prince Chris Azor, Chairman of ACSONet, the group acknowledged the recent engagement between Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo and traders affected by the project, describing such dialogue as “welcome and necessary.”
However, ACSONet warned that a project of this magnitude requires deeper consultation beyond the current scope.
“Onitsha Main Market is not just a collection of buildings. It is one of the largest commercial hubs in the region and sustains thousands of families directly and indirectly,” the statement read, adding “Decisions involving demolition, restructuring, and fixed deadlines should be approached with caution. Limited consultation risks distrust, legal disputes, economic losses, and unnecessary tension.”
The civil society group stressed that issues such as compensation, relocation, allocation of new shops, and traders’ right of return must be clearly defined and publicly communicated.
According to Prince Azor, “Transparency protects both the government and the trading community.”
ACSONet called for inclusive engagement with all stakeholders, including park traders, shop owners, landlords, transport operators, financial institutions operating within the market, professional bodies, and civil society organizations.
They urged that the full master plan, implementation structure, and allocation criteria be made public, with a lawful compensation and transition framework agreed upon.
A joint monitoring platform involving government, elected trader representatives, and independent bodies should guide each phase of the project.
“We respectfully urge the State Government to slow the process until these measures are put in place.
“Development works best when those most affected are properly heard, carried along, and assured that their future is secure within the plan.”
