- The Abuja Tyre Dealers’ Association is facing ongoing violence.
- Traders called on President Tinubu and local authorities for help.
- The situation is linked to a leadership dispute within the association.
- Vicious incidents have raised concerns over police inaction.
- Traders emphasize their rights to operate peacefully and without fear.
In Abuja, the Abuja Automobile Tyre Dealers’ Association has raised alarms regarding the alarming violence occurring at the Apo Tyre Market, questioning the effectiveness of local law enforcement. On Wednesday, traders, grappling with the chaos in their marketplace, poignantly inquired, “Who’s really in charge of law and order in Apo?” Their plea highlights escalating tension and a deep sense of frustration toward the Nigeria Police Force.
Concerned for their safety and ability to conduct business, the traders have appealed directly to President Bola Tinubu, the Inspector-General of Police, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and other influential authorities, urging them to take decisive action against the violence and disruption that have plagued their market. They assert that despite multiple petitions addressed to law enforcement, escalating attacks and property damage persist unchallenged.
During a press conference in Abuja, Arinze Okoye, the association's Secretary, articulated their predicament, stating that previous attempts to resolve the situation had proven futile, necessitating this public appeal. He attributed the crisis to internal factional disputes, stemming from issues surrounding former chairman Chimezie Ifeh. Okoye accused Ifeh and his supporters of instigating violence against other traders, thereby enforcing a climate of fear and intimidation.
“If a Divisional Police Officer can watch our members suffer and ignore our appeals for help, we must ask, who holds true authority in Apo?” Okoye challenged. The Abuja Automobile Tyre Dealers’ Association, established as the authentic entity for tyre and automobile accessories merchants in the Federal Capital Territory since February 21, 1996, now finds itself besieged by lawlessness and danger.
Okoye disclosed that Ifeh, who initially garnered the chairmanship in 2016, remained in power until 2022 when a caretaker committee facilitated new elections. The current chair, Samuel Akah, emerged victorious, yet the former chairman reportedly declared hostility against the association, insisting that his successor's leadership would be short-lived.
The association alleges a disturbing timeline of violent confrontations tied to this internal conflict, including a chaotic ambush on their members during a meeting in November 2025 and another outbreak in July 2026, leading to widespread injuries and disruptive incidents. Okoye recounted harrowing tales of innocent bystanders being assaulted and traders fleeing for their lives amid clashes that spilled onto major roadways.
Heightened tensions culminated in further accusations against local police for failing to act on explicit threats and harassment during these confrontations. They claim that individuals identified as involved in previous crimes are still at large due to complacency from law enforcement.
In solidarity, the traders implored President Tinubu to direct police to restore order at the market and requested that the Inspector-General of Police ensure the arrest of those implicated in their petitions. They asked for personal involvement from the Police Commissioner, advocating for the deregistration of a rival group that they allege operates without legitimate authority.
Okoye emphasized their urgency for lawful intervention, as they intend to continue conducting their businesses equitably and peacefully. “We demand the right to trade without fearing for our safety,” he asserted definitively, underscoring their steadfast commitment to ensuring justice and peace within their marketplace.
Why This Matters
The escalating violence at Apo Tyre Market not only poses risks to local traders but also raises broader concerns regarding law enforcement efficacy and community safety in Abuja.