Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, has condemned the demolition of buildings at the Lagos Trade Fair Complex.
The former Anambra State Governor criticised the action by the Lagos State authorities in a statement on Tuesday, September 30.
He asserted that the demolition did not follow due process.
“To destroy such legitimate investments without due process is not only unjust but also economically destructive,” Obi said.
Pinnacle Daily reports that the Lagos State authorities started the demolition exercise on Thursday, September 25.
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It was carried out by officials of the Lagos Ministry of Physical Planning, Lagos State Building Control Agency, Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency, and the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority.
Obi, who visited the Auto Spare Parts and Machinery Dealers Association (ASPAMDA) section of the market in the company of some lawmakers, including Enyinnaya Abaribe (Abia South senator) and Victor Umeh (Anambra Central senator), insisted that the buildings were pulled down despite valid approvals.
He commended the lawmakers who have pledged to investigate the matter “thoroughly and bring to light the circumstances that led to this unfortunate development” to forestall a recurrence.
He also commended the traders for their restraint and calm in the face of such painful loss.
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“Beyond this immediate case, I urge government at all levels to act with compassion, fairness, and a deep sense of justice, especially at this difficult time,” he said.
“Many of the affected traders invested heavily — often through loans — in the hope of securing their livelihoods and contributing to the wider economy,” he said.
Obi maintained that a society seeking progress must protect enterprise, encourage productivity, and defend the dignity of its citizens.
“Incidents like this should have no place in a nation that aspires to fairness, stability, and shared prosperity,” he added.
Alex is a business journalist cum data enthusiast with the Pinnacle Daily. He can be reached via ealex@thepinnacleng.com, @ehime_alex on X
