APPOEMN Stands with Alveena Events Against Unlawful Eviction, Looting

Mary Nnah

The Association of Professional Party Organisers and Event Managers of Nigeria (APPOEMN) has expressed deep concern and unequivocal condemnation of the recent eviction and subsequent looting at Emerald Park, Garki Area 3, Abuja, which severely impacted one of its members, Alveena Events.

APPOEMN Executives and Board of Trustees in a statement made available to THISDAY, strongly condemned the manner in which this eviction was carried out, without due process and with blatant disregard for the rights, safety, and livelihoods of the affected business owners.
The association called for an immediate and thorough investigation into the looting that occurred during and after the eviction, and demands that those responsible be held accountable and brought to justice.

On Saturday, August 17th, 2024, Alveena Events received an abrupt notice from the Department of Development Control, Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), Abuja, demanding the vacation of its premises within 48 hours. This notice, served without prior warning or legal recourse, led to the abrupt displacement of a decade-long business operation. To worsen the hardship, looters invaded the premises, resulting in the extensive loss of valuable assets.

According to eyewitnesses, the eviction was carried out in a chaotic and violent manner, with officials and security personnel allegedly harassing and intimidating staff and customers of Alveena Events. The association has also received reports of widespread destruction of property and theft of valuable equipment and assets.

APPOEMN urged all agencies involved in enforcement activities to exercise restraint, uphold due process, and prioritise the protection of lives, business premises, and assets. The association stands resolutely with Alveena Events and all SMEs facing similar challenges, and is committed to pursuing all available legal avenues to defend their rights and ensure justice is served.

APPOEMN stated, “This incident is a clear example of the systemic challenges faced by SMEs in Nigeria. We will not stand idly by while our members are subjected to such treatment. We demand justice and call on all stakeholders to work together to create a more supportive, secure, and fair environment for businesses to thrive in Nigeria.”

APPOEMN emphasised that SMEs are the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, and actions like these undermine their security and erode trust in institutions meant to protect them. The association calls on the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and other relevant authorities to take immediate action to address this incident and prevent similar occurrences in the future.