Lagos State Govt Denies Involvement In Demolition Of Peter Obi’s Brother’s Property

The Lagos State Government has refuted any role in the demolition of a property owned by the brother of Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate.

Gbenga Omotoso, the state commissioner for information and strategy, stated that Obi’s claim that the government authorized the demolition was “unverified and misleading.”

“The Lagos State Government is compelled to address the recent allegations made by Mr. Peter Obi regarding the demolition of a property belonging to his brother.

We wish to categorically state that the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) or any other agency of the Lagos State Government did not carry out the said demolition,” the statement read in part.

Omotoso further noted that Dr. Olajide Abiodun Babatunde, LASBCA’s Special Adviser on eGIS & Urban Development, confirmed that the agency was not involved in the contested demolition exercise.

Expressing concern over what it termed a politically motivated accusation, Omotoso stated: “We find it disturbing that Mr. Peter Obi would make such allegations without verifying the facts, especially given the proximity of the local government elections.”

He reaffirmed the government’s dedication to upholding the rule of law, assuring that anyone or any group found guilty of unlawful acts would face consequences.

Omotoso added that the state government has instructed Arc. Gbolahun Owodunni Oki, the Permanent Secretary, Office of Urban Development, to launch a thorough investigation through LASBCA.

“The investigation will help clarify the circumstances surrounding the demolition and ensure that any necessary actions are taken,” he said.

On Monday, June 23, Obi had publicly lamented the demolition of his brother’s company property located in Ikeja, the Lagos state capital. He maintained that the property was demolished without any court injunction and that his brother was not permitted to retrieve any personal belongings before the building was razed.

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli