Kwara Business Owners Protest As Governor AbdulRazaq Blocks Shops, Says ‘Our Livelihoods Are At Stake’

Ilorin, Kwara State – Hundreds of traders and business owners in Kwara State staged a protest on Monday, voicing their opposition to the state government’s decision to fence off a major road in the Post Office Challenge area of Ilorin, the state capital.

The project, initiated by Governor Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq, has effectively restricted access to shops and offices in the bustling commercial hub, leaving traders frustrated and concerned about their livelihoods.

The fenced road has reportedly caused a  drop in foot traffic, which is crucial for the survival of businesses in the area.

Protesters carried placards with messages such as “Don’t kill us,” “Challenge is a central market, give us more entrances,” and “Single entrance can’t contain us.”

One of the traders, Sikiru Ajayi, lamented, “Our income has drastically reduced because customers can no longer reach us. This project is killing our businesses.

“If the government had engaged us, we could have worked together to find a solution that doesn’t destroy our livelihoods.

The traders criticised the government’s lack of consultation and transparency before commencing the project.

While the government has not provided a detailed explanation for the fencing, the protesters are demanding that the project be halted immediately and that alternative measures be implemented to preserve their businesses.

Meanwhile, the traders have vowed to continue their protests until their demands are met.