From Femi Mustapha, in Kaduna
The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) expressed sadness over the recent demolition of the historic Alaba Rago Market in Lagos State, which was once the hub of livestock business in the state.
In a statement issued by the Forum’s National Publicity Secretary, Professor Tukur Muhammad, the ACF urged the Lagos state government to refrain from further demolition of the market.
The demolition has resulted in losses of businesses and property, with disruption to the means of livelihoods and other woes for thousands of people.
Although no loss of lives has been reported, the ACF commiserated with all those affected, who suffered direct and indirect losses and other disruptions arising from the development.
ACF called on the Lagos State and Federal authorities to extend aid to the victims of the incident and to help all rebuild their lives. The Forum also urged all those affected and their sympathisers to remain calm and law-abiding.
The Forum has initiated efforts to obtain full details of the incident, its impact, and the antecedents leading to it. The outcome of the investigations will provide a basis for an engagement with the affected community and the Lagos State Government for a satisfactory resolution of the problem.
ACF expressed hope that the usual resilience of the people will help them cope with the losses arising from the demolition. “Alaba Rago has been a historic landmark in Lagos, and ACF believes it will remain so. In the fullness of time, the market will roar back to life, and even more vibrant and prosperous,” the statement said.
