Innoson cries foul as Anambra Govt demolishes company HQ

A conflict has erupted between the Anambra State Government and Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing (IVM) following the partial demolition of the company’s head office in Nnewi.

The Anambra State Commissioner for Works, Mr. Ifeanyi Okoma, confirmed that the demolition was part of a broader road expansion project targeting structures along the Nnewi-Owerri Road. According to him, the affected buildings—including churches and private properties—were marked in late 2024, and notices were issued.

“We are not targeting anyone. Even the Catholic Church is affected. These demolitions are necessary to ease traffic congestion, especially during festive periods,” Okoma stated. He also emphasized that Governor Charles Soludo has consistently supported locally made products, including vehicles from Innoson.

However, Innoson Group has strongly disagreed with the government’s version of events. The company’s Head of Corporate Communications, Mr. Cornel Osigwe, expressed shock over the demolition, claiming the company received no formal notification. He said the action, which occurred while employees were at work, damaged key infrastructure such as perimeter fencing, staircases, parts of the showroom, and trapped several vehicles and staff members.

Osigwe said a public announcement made a day earlier mentioned that buildings marked for demolition had one week to relocate, but Innoson was never given that window or even informed it was among the listed properties. “It came as a surprise. The demolition vehicle showed up and began tearing down parts of our premises while operations were ongoing,” he said.

He stopped short of accusing the government of deliberate sabotage but expressed concern about the motives behind the selective demolition. “There are buildings nearby also marked that were not touched. It raises questions,” Osigwe added.

Despite the dispute, Osigwe acknowledged the longstanding supportive relationship between Governor Soludo and the company but warned against potential internal sabotage by those executing the demolition orders.

As of now, no formal investigation has been announced, but the situation continues to stir controversy and public debate across the state.