Court halts demolition of CUDA shopping complex in Akure
An Ondo State High Court has stopped the planned demolition of the CUDA Shopping Complex in Alagbaka, Akure, granting relief to dozens of tenants who had raised alarm over an impending ejection.
Justice O. M. Adejumo, presiding over the case, on Friday issued an interim injunction restraining the Ondo State Government and its agents from demolishing or tampering with the complex until the substantive suit before the court is determined.
The order followed an application filed by Col. Saka Foluso Sunday (Rtd.), a businessman and one of the tenants, who approached the court alongside other occupants to challenge what they described as an unlawful ejection notice and looming demolition that could cripple their businesses.
The claimants, represented by Chief O. S. Akintububo, SAN, and F. E. Olubayode, argued that the quit notice issued was unjust and sought the protection of the court.
After reviewing their motion, affidavit, and cited legal authorities, Justice Adejumo held that their application had merit.
In his ruling, the judge specifically ordered the 2nd and 3rd respondents, their agents, servants, or privies, to desist from demolishing the property or forcefully ejecting tenants pending the hearing of the motion on notice.
The case has since generated public interest in Akure due to the strategic location of the CUDA Shopping Complex in Alagbaka, a hub for shops and offices.
