Soludo’s Government Demolishes Part of Innoson Motors’ Headquarters, Gives Reasons

The Anambra State Government has partially demolished the headquarters of Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing (IVM) in Nnewi, drawing criticism from the company and raising questions about the motive behind the action. The demolition took place on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, reportedly without prior notice to the company.

Cornel Osigwe, Head of Corporate Communications at Innoson Group, expressed shock over the development, stating that the company was unaware the building had been slated for demolition. He noted that employees were present and working when the demolition began, with some briefly trapped inside. Over 20 vehicles within the premises were also affected.

“The demolition came to us as a surprise. We did not know that the building itself was marked for demolition, and if it was, they should have given us time to relocate,” Osigwe told the News Agency of Nigeria.

He questioned the apparent selectivity of the exercise, pointing out that several nearby buildings marked for demolition were left untouched. “There were other buildings close to the head office that were also marked, but they were not demolished. They came directly to our building, making us wonder if there was an ulterior motive,” he said.

While dismissing the idea of a politically motivated attack, Osigwe hinted at the possibility of a personal vendetta by those handling the demolition. “Governor Charles Soludo has been a strong supporter of Innoson, and we have also supported the state government. But the way this was done makes us wonder whether those executing the demolition may have personal issues with the company,” he added.

In defense of the state’s action, the Commissioner for Works, Ifeanyi Okoma, stated that the demolition was part of a broader road expansion initiative aimed at easing traffic congestion, especially during festive periods. He stressed that the affected buildings were marked months earlier and that the operation was not targeted at any particular entity.

“These buildings were marked sometime in December or January. It’s not about individuals or companies — the exercise applies across the area. Even religious institutions like the Catholic Church were not exempt,” Okoma explained.

He reaffirmed the government’s support for Innoson, noting that Governor Soludo is the only state governor in Nigeria who exclusively uses made-in-Nigeria vehicles. “Chief Innoson is our man. Anyone trying to twist the narrative of this demolition does not mean well,” he said.