Chimezie Ifeh, the Chairman of the Apo Traders Association, addressed the lawmakers during the presentation of the petition at the Apo Mechanic Village. He expressed disappointment over the failure of successive FCT Ministers to fulfil their obligations under the land allocation agreement.
Ifeh highlighted the challenges they have faced since 1990 when the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) initially provided them with a permanent business location. He recounted how they were forcefully relocated multiple times and forced to trade on the road corridor, leading to losses during the EndSARS protest in 2020.
According to the traders' petition, in 2010 they received approval from the then Minister of FCT, Sen. Bala Mohammed, to seek a suitable place for their business. They were informed by Assistant Director Mr Wale Aderitan that a location had been secured for them.
However, after paying 10.5 million naira to a surveyor recommended by the FCDA, they discovered that no progress had been made on the site. The association subsequently wrote protest letters to the FCDA and the National Assembly, seeking intervention.
Meetings were held, promises were made, and a letter of intent was issued by Sen. Bala Mohammed in March 2015. However, the lease agreement remained unsigned, causing further delays and frustrations for the traders.
Appealing for assistance, the traders implored the lawmakers to intervene, highlighting the loss of lives and properties without compensation or reallocation. Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, leading the lawmakers' response, assured the traders that their petition would be addressed and presented before the House for legislative action.
Hon. Obi Aguocha, speaking on behalf of the South East lawmakers, expressed gratitude to the traders for their peaceful approach to the issue and reassured them that their petition would receive proper attention. He emphasised the importance of maintaining peace and pledged the lawmakers' commitment to protecting the interests of the traders and the wider Nigerian population.
The traders were encouraged to contact the lawmakers before taking any action, and they were assured that the petition would be read on the floor of the House in the near future. The resolution of this long-standing issue holds the potential for improved conditions and stability for the Apo Traders, as they seek justice and fair treatment in their business endeavors.