Anambra Government Clears the Air on Innoson Showroom Demolition

Following widespread criticism over the partial demolition of the Innoson Motors showroom in Nnewi, the Anambra State Government has issued an official statement clarifying the circumstances surrounding the action. The government insists the demolition was not sudden, as widely reported, but followed due process and extensive consultation.

In a press release signed by the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, the government stated that the affected structure was marked for removal in November 2024, following a stakeholders’ consultative meeting held on November 1, 2024. Notices were served to all property owners and businesses along the Nnewi-Ozubulu-Onitsha federal highway, whose buildings encroached on the federally designated right-of-way.

The statement emphasized that the right-of-way is defined by the Federal Highway Act of 1971 as a stretch extending 45.72 metres from the center of the highway, and any structure within this boundary is deemed illegal. The Innoson showroom, according to the government, fell within this boundary and was officially registered for removal under the name of Mrs. Eucharia Alaru with the reference number ASML/AOA/NW/L/066.

The government added that Dr. Innocent Chukwuma, Chairman of Innoson Group, was fully aware of the planned demolition and had even spoken with various stakeholders, including the Governor, more than three months ago. The administration argued that no individual or company, regardless of their stature, should be treated differently when it comes to public safety and adherence to the law.

While acknowledging Innoson’s vital role in the state’s economy and Governor Charles Soludo’s strong support of the company—evident in his exclusive use of Innoson vehicles for official duties—the government stressed that enforcement of the law must apply equally to all. The statement also pointed out that the demolition was not targeted, noting that properties belonging to notable figures such as Dim Odumegwu Ojukwu, his wife Iyom Bianca Ojukwu, and various churches were also affected.

The state government criticized what it called deliberate misinformation being circulated by “paid content creators” who it claims are attempting to discredit the administration’s development agenda. It reiterated that the demolition took place over four months after notices were served and that all affected parties were informed, including through the Nnewi town union leadership.

Reaffirming its commitment to building a livable and prosperous Anambra, the government called for respect for the law, insisting that public infrastructure development cannot be compromised by individual interests. The statement concluded by expressing empathy for all affected property owners but underscored that structures within the federal right-of-way must be removed, now or in the future, for the greater good of the state.