The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) has called on the Nigerian Army to exercise restraint and reopen the popular Banex Plaza business arena in Wuse 2, Abuja, which was shut down on Saturday, May 18th, 2024.
The closure followed a reported incident between some military officers and traders in the plaza, which resulted in a confrontation and subsequent attacks on the officers by irate youths.
While the ACCI condemns the actions of the traders who attacked the military personnel, it has expressed concern over the legality of the army’s decision to shut down the entire business complex.
Speaking on the matter, the President of the ACCI, Chief Emeka Obegolu, SAN, PhD, stated, “If the Army can be attacked, it means the ordinary civilian is not safe anymore. We urge that the perpetrators of this dastardly act be apprehended and punished for their actions.”
However, the ACCI has pleaded with the Nigerian Army to “temper justice with mercy” and expedite the reopening of the Banex Plaza, which is a hub of business activities in the Federal Capital Territory.
Chief Obegolu emphasized the significant economic impact of the plaza’s closure, stating that it has resulted in substantial losses for businesses and hampered the overall economic development of the region.
“Apprehending the hoodlums will help resolve the issue and serve as a deterrent to others who may have an irrational attitude in tackling civic issues. Reopening of the plaza will help put food on people’s tables for their families and also boost the economic activities of the country,” the ACCI President added.
The ACCI, as the voice of the business community in the Federal Capital Territory, has expressed its commitment to working with the relevant authorities to find a mutually acceptable solution that ensures the safety of all stakeholders while also protecting the economic interests of the local business community.
