The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has strongly criticized the government over the demolition of citizens’ properties without proper notice, describing the act as unlawful, insensitive, and inhumane.
In a post shared on his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle on Monday, Obi said the recent demolition exercise has further deepened the economic hardship facing ordinary Nigerians.
His reaction follows reports that several plazas were demolished at the Trade Fair Complex in Ojo Local Government Area of Lagos State. The operation was reportedly carried out by officials from the Lagos State Ministry of Physical Planning, the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), the Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency, and the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority.
“A Heartless Act in Difficult Times”
Obi, who served as Governor of Anambra State, condemned the willful destruction of people’s homes, shops, and businesses, saying it was unacceptable, particularly at a time when many Nigerians are already struggling to survive.
“This is happening across the country at a time when the government is supposed to be lifting citizens out of poverty. Instead, it is plunging them deeper into hardship,” Obi wrote.
He added that such demolitions “destroy livelihoods, undermine businesses, and threaten the economic security of hardworking citizens.”
Call for Compassion and Relief
The Labour Party flag bearer urged the government to show empathy and restraint in handling urban development issues, emphasizing that compassion and relief—not destruction—should guide its actions.
“Rather than compounding citizens’ hardship, the government should focus on measures that provide relief to struggling families,” he said.
Obi’s comments come amid growing public outrage over forced evictions and demolitions in different parts of the country, as many Nigerians accuse authorities of failing to prioritize human welfare in their enforcement of development regulations.
