The Lagos State Government has defended the recent demolitions at the Trade Fair Complex, stressing that the exercise was carried out in line with existing state laws.
The move, which affected several businesses largely owned by South-Eastern traders, has sparked outrage and accusations of ethnic targeting from various quarters.
Senator Victor Umeh, representing Anambra Central, had earlier condemned the action, describing it as “illegal” and beyond the jurisdiction of the Lagos authorities.
“The country is governed by laws and the constitution. I’m disappointed that the Commissioner for Physical Planning in Lagos State came on air to justify an illegal action,” Umeh said during an appearance on Channels Television.
Responding to the criticism, Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, insisted the demolitions were lawful and in line with the state’s enforcement mandates.
“When it comes to Lagos State, every Tom, Dick, and Harry has an opinion,” Wahab wrote on his official X handle. “Was it illegal when Governor Alex Otti removed contraventions in Abia State? Was it also illegal when Governor Charles Soludo did the same in Anambra?”
He added that Lagos remains committed to enforcing its laws “without distraction, irrespective of whose ox is gored.”
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