A group claiming to represent the Nmaatii Abonasi Lands Committee Task Force, under the La Traditional Council, stormed the Trade Fair Centre in Accra on January 14,2025 to halt redevelopment activities on the site.
The task force drove away workers of CK Engineering, the contractors handling the redevelopment project, demanding compensation from the government.
According to the group, the land on which the Trade Fair Centre was built was originally given by the Mattia Bonasset family, co-owners of the La Stool lands, to the government decades ago without any form of compensation.
Speaking to Metro News, the chairman of the task force, Makwei, vowed that his men would continue to occupy the site until meaningful negotiations are held.
“We are demanding what is rightfully due to the La people. The government must engage us in dialogue and ensure that proper compensation is paid for the use of our lands,” Mr. Makwe said.
The Ghana Trade Fair Centre, originally built in 1967 to host exhibitions and promote international trade, was demolished in February 2020 to pave the way for its redevelopment into a modern Trade and Convention Centre.
The demolition, which took place on February 16, 2020, was part of the government’s plans to transform the dilapidated facility into a world-class commercial and exhibition hub.
The exercise, carried out at night under heavy security, saw bulldozers raze structures on the 156-acre land, sparking outrage among some business owners and traders who operated within the premises.
the demolition resulted in the destruction of properties belonging to investigative journalist and businessman Raymond Archer, who had a printing press within the facility.
Mr. Archer described the demolition as an attack on his business and a blow to the media industry. Other tenants also expressed frustration, claiming they were not given adequate notice to vacate the premises.
At the time, the Ghana Trade Fair Company Limited (GTFCL) defended the decision, stating that the redevelopment project was crucial for economic growth.
The new Trade Fair Centre was envisioned to feature exhibition halls, hotels, and office spaces to boost Ghana’s trade and tourism sectors.
The Trade Fair redevelopment project has faced repeated interruptions due to disputes between the government, contractors, and stakeholders, including the La Traditional Council. In 2020, some shop owners resisted the demolition exercise, leading to clashes and the destruction of properties.
The task force’s recent invasion of the site adds another layer to the ongoing standoff, which has hindered progress on the redevelopment. Observers have called for a swift resolution to the land dispute to ensure the project moves forward without further disruptions.
The government has yet to comment on the task force’s demands, but stakeholders are urging authorities to engage the La Traditional Council to address their grievances and bring lasting peace to the area.
Thugs to take over Trade Fair? #OriginalNews pic.twitter.com/ICfXtoC5As
— Original TV Ghana (@originaltvghana) January 14, 2025
