Following the claims that it demolised a property said to belong to a brother of Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, in Lagos State, the state government has ordered a full-scale investigation to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the demolition and ensure that necessary actions were taken.
The State government, which denied involvement in the demolition of the building, however, directed the Permanent Secretary, Office of Urban Development, Arc. Gbolahan Oki, to request a full investigation by the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) into the matter.
This was contained in a statement signed by the State’s Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Gbenga Omotoso, titled ‘Clarificatíon on Demolition of Property’ issued on Thursday.
Recall that Peter Obi had claimed that the state government unlawfully demolished his brother’s property.
He had criticised what he called an alleged forceful takeover of a Lagos property belonging to Next Foods Limited, of which his younger brother, Ndibe Obi, is the majority shareholder.
It was gathered that bulldozers demolished the property located at number 57, Oduduwa Crescent in the Ikeja GRA of Lagos State, beginning from Monday, June 23, 2025 and June 24, 2025.
In its reaction, the Lagos state government said, “it 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 arm of the Lagos State Government did not carry out the said demolition.
“Dr. Olajide Abiodun Babatunde, Special Adviser, eGIS & Urban Development, who supervises LASBCA, has confirmed that the agency was not involved in the demolition. We find it disturbing that Mr. Peter Obi would make such allegations without verifying the facts.
“The Lagos State government is committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the safety and security of all residents. We will not tolerate any acts of lawlessness or violations of extant laws. Any individual or group found involved in such acts will be brought to justice.
“We urge the public to disregard Mr. Peter Obi’s claims and rest assured that the Lagos State Government will continue to work tirelessly to maintain law and order in our great state. We will not be swayed by baseless allegations or attempts to discredit our efforts.
“Furthermore, we have directed the Permanent Secretary, Office of Urban Development, Arc. Gbolahan Owodunni Oki, FNIA, to request a full investigation by the Lagos State Building Control Agency into this matter. This investigation will help clarify the circumstances surrounding the demolition and ensure that any necessary actions are taken.
“The Lagos State Government welcomes everyone to live and work in the state, and we assure all residents of our continued commitment to their safety and well-being,” Omotoso stated.
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