On the 20th of May, 2024, Banex Plaza, located in Wuse, Abuja, was shut down by the Nigerian Army following a confrontation between traders and soldiers on Saturday.
The conflict began when a buyer, accompanied by four soldiers, demanded a refund for a faulty phone. The shop owner resisted the demand, leading to a confrontation. The situation escalated into a physical altercation involving military personnel, resulting in an uproar and attacks on the soldiers by some irate individuals in the area.
In response to the escalating violence, soldiers have since taken control of the area.
As of today Monday, shop owners were denied access to Banex Plaza. The heavy military presence deterred many from attempting to enter, forcing traders to return home. The shop owner involved in the initial conflict has been declared wanted, and his shop has been locked down.
Residents living near Banex Plaza have also been affected, as they are now required to find alternative routes to their homes due to the shutdown of major roads in the area.
The situation remains tense, with authorities maintaining a strong presence to prevent further disturbances.
Banex Plaza is a significant commercial hub. Its closure affects the local economy, with a ripple effect on nearby businesses and services that rely on the foot traffic generated by the plaza.
This affects not only the shop owners but also their employees, suppliers, and other stakeholders dependent on the commercial activities of the plaza.
Also the closure of major roads around Banex Plaza forces residents in the vicinity to seek alternative routes, leading to increased traffic congestion and longer commute times.
Meanwhile, the presence of military personnel and the initial conflict create a sense of unease and insecurity among the local population. The potential for further violence makes people wary of the area.
Furthermore, the declaration of the shop owner as a wanted person raises legal and social concerns.
