The Area I Shopping Complex and Market in Abuja was threatened with closure on Monday by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) due to suspected improper business practices by vendors.
Malam Umar Shuaibu, the coordinator of the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC), issued the warning after visiting the market with other top administrators to confirm the veracity of a number of complaints that had been made against it.
The first mall in Abuja, according to Shuaibu, needs to live up to expectations.
”The market has places earmarked for different purposes but the traders have thwarted the whole plan.
”The administration will take stringent measures as soon as the committee sets up to review the situation submit its report.
“The committee comprises of FCT strategic agencies, departments and secretariat. So, as soon as the committee finishes it work, we will commence enforcement. Some structures will be removed with others relocated,” he said.
He regretted that the informal sector in the area have littered the entire place without taking into account best hygiene practices.
“We are in the market on a fact finding mission because of the several reports and complaints we have received.
” The whole place has been littered especially by the informal sector, there are areas reserved for walkways, pedestrians and parking. This area must be used according to what was planned.
“We are going to restore sanity by removing all these illegalities. The places that require relocation and removal will all be addressed,” he said.
He said the market was recognised internationally and must be in conformity with set standards.