Traders at Ariaria International Market, Aba, Southeast Nigeria have raised an alarm over the alleged planned demolition of the market by the Abia State government.

The traders also described the action as unnecessary while calling on the government to focus on fixing the deplorable roads as well as upgrade facility in the markets.

The Chairman of the National Association of Nigerian Traders, Ariaria International Market, Mr Michael Anibogu, during a press briefing at Aba, stated that the traders would resist any attempt by the committee set up by government to demolish their shops because it is their only source of income.

However, in a swift reaction, the Chairman, Abia State Market Development Committee, Solomon Wigwe, disclosed that the government has no intention to demolish the market, but noted that the section to be brought down include the illegal structures erected on the walk ways and drainages.

He said that the exercise would be carried out in phases and aimed to develop the existing markets to an enviable standard.