Karmo Leaders Reject Market Relocation, Say Move Threatens Community Identity

The District Head of Karmo Sabo in the Federal Capital Territory, Alhaji Yunusa Ashama Karmo, has opposed any plan to relocate the community’s market outside the area, warning that such a move could undermine the identity and livelihood of residents.

Karmo made the position known while appealing to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, and relevant authorities to reconsider any proposal to demolish the existing Karmo Market or compel traders to move to a privately owned modern market.

He said the market had existed alongside the community for many years and remained an important economic centre for residents, particularly those who depend on petty trading following declining access to farmland.

“Taking this market to another place is like taking our identity away from us,” the district head said, stressing that the market was closely linked to the history, culture and economic life of Karmo.

He expressed concern that forcing traders to relocate to a site outside the traditional control of the community could generate tension, urging the authorities to pursue dialogue with residents and traders.

Karmo said the community had deliberately chosen peaceful engagement rather than confrontation, adding that traditional institutions in the area remained opposed to any forced relocation.

He clarified, however, that the community was not opposed to modern development or private investment, but wanted traders to retain the freedom to decide where they would conduct their businesses.

The district head therefore urged the FCT Administration to consider reconstructing and modernising the existing market rather than relocating it.

According to him, upgrading the market would help address challenges associated with roadside trading, traffic congestion, poor organisation and other environmental concerns while preserving its role within the community.

Karmo appealed to Wike to use his office to reconsider the proposed relocation and support a solution that would balance the FCT’s development objectives with the interests, history and identity of the Karmo community.