The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has criticised the government over the demolition of buildings and business premises across the country, describing the action as unlawful, insensitive, and economically destructive.
In a statement shared on his verified X handle on Monday, Obi condemned the recent demolition of several plazas at the Trade Fair Complex in Ojo Local Government Area of Lagos State. The exercise was reportedly carried out by officials of the Lagos State Ministry of Physical Planning, the Building Control Agency, the Urban Renewal Agency, and the Physical Planning Permit Authority.
Obi, a former governor of Anambra State, said the willful destruction of citizens’ homes, shops, and goods by government agencies was deeply condemnable, especially at a time when Nigerians were already struggling under the weight of economic hardship.
He argued that such actions were unacceptable under an administration whose policies had already driven millions into poverty within just 29 months.
“At a time when the government should be focused on lifting citizens out of poverty, it is instead pushing them further into hardship,” Obi wrote. “These demolitions destroy livelihoods, undermine businesses, and threaten the economic security of hardworking Nigerians.”
The LP flagbearer urged authorities to adopt more compassionate and humane approaches to urban renewal and enforcement, prioritising relief and support measures for struggling families rather than compounding their suffering.
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