Outrage in Anambra as Government Demolishes Buildings, Including Innoson HQ, in Road Expansion Drive
Widespread criticism has trailed the Anambra State Government after it commenced the demolition of buildings along the Nnewi-Owerri Road as part of its ongoing road expansion project.
The exercise, spearheaded by the state’s Physical and Building Control Agency, began Wednesday in Nnewi and affected hundreds of structures, including shops, homes, and notably, part of the headquarters of Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing.
Viral videos captured emotional scenes as property owners lamented the destruction, with many buildings rendered unusable. The demolition sparked mixed reactions among residents, victims, and social media users. While some accused the government of bias, others questioned the manner and timing of the operation.
Victims claimed they were not properly informed. One of the affected landlords, Chief Emenike Gabriel, speaking on Friday, said:
“We were not properly notified about this demolition. They didn’t act with due diligence. Some of these buildings are over 70 years old. Even if they were marked, we deserved time to relocate.”
Critics also alleged selective demolition, claiming a church fence obstructing a drainage channel was left untouched.
Defending the government’s action, Commissioner for Works, Ifeanyi Okoma, stated in a Friday press release that the buildings were marked for demolition as far back as December 2024. He insisted that the process was impartial and not politically motivated.
“These roads were designed to ease traffic during festive periods,” Okoma said. “The demolition is not personalized. Even churches were not exempted. Governor Soludo remains a strong supporter of Innoson and made-in-Nigeria vehicles.”
Innoson Group, however, disputed the government’s claims. Its Head of Corporate Communications, Cornel Osigwe, stated that there was no prior notice before Wednesday’s demolition.
“It came as a surprise. Some staff were trapped during the demolition. Over 20 vehicles were affected,” Osigwe said.
He added that while a general notice had mentioned a one-week grace period for marked buildings, the company received no specific communication.
He further questioned the motive behind the selective demolition, noting that other nearby marked buildings were left untouched.
“Innoson has always supported the government, and the governor has supported us. But the way this was carried out raises concerns over whether the demolition crew had a personal vendetta,” Osigwe added.
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