Some traders from Mile 12 Market, Ikosi-Isheri, Lagos State, on Thursday gathered at the Ikeja High Court Complex, jubilating for an extension of an interim injunction granted in their favour.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports the injunction granted by Justice Latifat Oluyemi of an Ikeja high court was extended until March 30.
The injunction restrained the Office of Lagos Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, and Kosofe Local Government from forcefully taking over the Alaba Section of Mile 12 Market.
NAN reports that the traders, who came out in hundreds, also protested alleged demolition of the section by Lagos State Government.
NAN reports that Oluyemi 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.
Oluyemi adjourned the case until March 30 for hearing of the motion on notice.
The judge warned the respondents from disobeying the court’s order and threatened a prison term against anyone who would violate the order.
Mr Mutiu Quadri, who appeared for the traders, earlier informed the court that in spite of the court order, there was an ongoing construction in the market by the respondents.
Mrs Dupe Ojo, the “Iyaloja of Orisunmibare”of the Alaba Section of Mile 12 Market, told newsmen that three traders had lost their lives due to shock over the demolition of the market.
“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 Oct. 26, 2022, when a notice of contravention was pasted, and Lagos State Government commenced demolition two days after the notice.
“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 on the table and talk. They should compensate our people. We welcome innovation, we don’t want war,” she said.
Other respondents in the suit numbered ID/6464GCMW/2022, include Ikosi/Isheri Local Council Development Area, Dr Chris Onyekachi, Total Value Integrated Services Ltd. and Lagos State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development. (NAN)