Yes, New Berries Park in Enugu was partially demolished on July 19, 2026, an incident that quickly became one of the most talked about local stories in the state.
The demolition sparked widespread reactions on social media, with many residents questioning who was responsible and whether the popular recreational destination would continue operating.
In the days that followed, the park owner, Jenew Homes Limited and the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA) each released public statements presenting their positions on the incident. Shortly afterward, New Berries Park announced that it had resumed normal operations and remains open to visitors.
Here’s a closer look at what happened.
What Happened at New Berries Park?
On Sunday, July 19, 2026, parts of New Berries Park were demolished.
Photos and videos showing damaged buildings and facilities circulated online, drawing attention from residents, tourists and regular visitors to the park.
Although the demolition affected sections of the property, the park later clarified that it suffered partial destruction rather than a complete demolition.
The Incident Sparked Public Debate
Following the demolition, social media users began sharing different accounts of what had happened.
Some online posts suggested that the Enugu State Government carried out the demolition, while others claimed it was linked to a dispute over the land occupied by the park.
As public interest grew, several parties released official statements to clarify their positions.
The Park Owner’s Statement
After the demolition, Mr. Ikenna Abanonu, owner of New Berries Park, addressed the public through a live broadcast. According to him, the park has operated for more than 2 decades and occupies land held under a lease agreement that he said remains valid until 2028.
During the broadcast, he alleged that Mrs. Jennifer Onoh, Managing Director and CEO of Jenew Homes Limited, was responsible for the demolition. These allegations received widespread attention online
However, they have been publicly denied.
Jenew Homes Limited Responds
On July 21, 2026, Mrs. Jennifer Onoh, Managing Director and CEO of Jenew Homes Limited, released a written disclaimer rejecting the allegations.
In the statement, she described the claims as:
“false, misleading, malicious, and intended to misrepresent the true facts surrounding the property in question.”
Mrs. Onoh stated that:
- The land was allocated to Jenew Homes Limited by the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing (now the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development) in August 2022.
- Following a Federal High Court judgment, possession of the property was handed over to the company in January 2026.
- Neither she nor Jenew Homes Limited authorized or participated in the demolition.
- The company reserved the right to pursue legal action regarding what it described as defamatory allegations.
Note: Pathcresta has not independently verified these claims.
ECTDA Denies Government Involvement
As speculation continued online, the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA) also released an official disclaimer.
According to the Authority, it:
- Did not authorize the demolition.
- Did not supervise the operation.
- Did not participate in the demolition.
- Had no prior knowledge of the incident.
ECTDA also stated that reports linking the Authority or the Enugu State Government to the demolition were inaccurate.
The Authority said it issued the disclaimer to prevent misunderstanding regarding its role in the matter.
Was the Entire Park Demolished?
No.
Based on the official communication released by the management of New Berries Park, the incident resulted in the partial destruction of some of its facilities, not the complete demolition of the entire park.
The management stated that while some structures were affected, the park continues to operate.
Is New Berries Park Still Open?
Yes.
Following the incident, New Berries Park released an official notice thanking customers for their support and confirming that:
“New Berries Park remains open for business every day.”
Management also reassured visitors that the park continues to offer hospitality, dining, entertainment, and recreational services while recovery efforts continue.
This means visitors can still plan trips to the park despite the recent incident.
What New Berries Park Management Said
In its appreciation message to customers and the people of Enugu, management acknowledged the support it received following what it described as the partial destruction of some facilities.
The statement emphasized that customer confidence had strengthened the park’s resolve to continue providing quality hospitality and entertainment.
Management also reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for guests while rebuilding affected areas.
Why the Story Matters
For more than two decades, New Berries Park has been one of Enugu’s Most popular recreational destinations.
The park is popular for:
- Family outings
- Birthday celebrations
- Weekend relaxation
- Social gatherings
- Photography
- Dining
- Entertainment
Because of its popularity, news of the demolition quickly attracted attention both within Enugu and beyond.
The incident also raised broader discussions about land ownership, property rights, and the importance of relying on official statements while events are still unfolding.
What Visitors Should Know
If you’re planning to visit New Berries Park, the latest information from management indicates that the park remains operational.
Some facilities may still be undergoing repairs, but visitors are encouraged to check the park’s official social media channels for any updates before traveling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Was New Berries Park demolished?
Yes. Parts of New Berries Park were demolished on July 19, 2026. According to the park’s management, the incident caused partial destruction of some facilities.
Was the entire park destroyed?
No. The management says the damage affected only part of the park and the business continues to operate.
Who demolished New Berries Park?
Responsibility for the demolition remains disputed. Mr. Ikenna Abanonu, the park owner, publicly alleged that Mrs. Jennifer Onoh, CEO of Jenew Homes Limited was responsible. Mrs. Onoh has denied the allegation and ECTDA has denied any government involvement. Pathcresta has not independently verified the competing claims.
Is New Berries Park still open?
Yes. The park’s management has confirmed that New Berries Park remains open for business every day.
Can I still visit New Berries Park?
Yes. According to the latest announcement from management, visitors are welcome, and the park continues to operate while rebuilding affected areas.
In Summary
Yes, New Berries Park was partially demolished on July 19, 2026, but the attraction has not permanently closed.
While questions surrounding responsibility for the demolition remain the subject of conflicting public statements, one point is clear: New Berries Park has confirmed that it remains open and continues to welcome visitors
As additional verified information becomes available, the public will gain a clearer understanding of the events surrounding one of Enugu’s most talked-about tourism stories in recent years.
Thank you for reading. Visit Pathcresta for more travel guides, tourism news, destination reviews and travel tips from Nigeria, Africa and around the world.
