On Thursday, some traders from Mile 12 Market, Ikosi-Isheri, gathered at the Ikeja Division of the Lagos High Court Complex, jubilating the extension of an interim injunction granted in their favour.

The injunction granted by Justice Latifat Oluyemi was extended until March 30. It restrained the Lagos attorney general and Kosofe local government from forcibly taking over the Alaba section of the market. 

The traders, who came out in hundreds, also protested the Lagos government’s alleged demolition of the section. 

The high court judge had ordered the extension of the interim order until March 30 after the respondents’ counsel sought an adjournment to enable them to file counter-affidavits to a motion on notice. Ms Oluyemi warned the respondents against disobeying the court’s order.

Mutiu Quadri, who appeared for the traders, informed the court that despite the court’s order, there was an ongoing construction in the market by the respondents.

Dupe Ojo, the Iyaloja of Orisunmibare of the Alaba section, told journalists that three traders had lost their lives due to shock over the demolition of the market section.

“The three traders that died as a result of shock are Mujidat Suleiman, Adejoke Olawole and one Ademola; the children they left behind are with us in the struggle. The beginning of the incident was October 26, 2022, when a notice of contravention was pasted, and the Lagos government commenced demolition two days after the notice,” stated Ms Ojo.

She added, “I am in court to seek justice for these poor people. Despite the interim injunction, they are working there with over 200 thugs and policemen. Let us sit at the table and talk. They should compensate our people. We welcome innovation. We don’t want war.”

Other respondents in the suit numbered ID/6464GCMW/2022 include Ikosi/Isheri Local Council Development Area, Chris Onyekachi, Total Value Integrated Services Ltd. and Lagos State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development. 

(NAN)