June 13, 2026 | SUNTV Global Channel | Enugu State
The Catholic Diocese of Nsukka has strongly criticised the administration of Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, alleging that the demolition of shops at the popular Ogige Market, Nsukka, has had devastating consequences for affected traders, with reports indicating that more than 16 people have died following the exercise.
In a statement issued by the Diocese’s Director of Communications, Fr. Emmanuel I. Asadu, the Church condemned what it described as attempts by government officials to politicise a pastoral message delivered during the burial of a deceased catechist, John Attah.
According to the Diocese, the late Attah was among traders allegedly affected by the market demolition, which reportedly caused severe emotional, financial and health-related hardships for many victims.
The Church maintained that it remains a non-partisan institution and that its intervention was motivated solely by concern for justice, human dignity and the welfare of affected families.
“The duty of the Church is to speak against injustice and the suffering of the people,” the statement said, while warning against efforts to intimidate or silence voices highlighting the impact of government policies.
The controversy stems from the demolition of sections of the historic Ogige Market as part of the Enugu State Government’s urban renewal and transportation development programme. While the government has defended the exercise as necessary for infrastructure expansion, critics argue that many traders were displaced without adequate compensation or clear resettlement plans.
Reports indicate that over 160 shops were affected by the demolition, leaving many traders and business owners struggling to recover their livelihoods.
The development has reignited debate over the social and economic consequences of urban renewal projects, with stakeholders calling for a balance between infrastructural development and the welfare of citizens.
Reporting by SUNTV Global Channel
