The Lagos State Government has initiated a comprehensive investigation into the reported demolition of a property said to belong to the brother of Mr. Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections.
This follows public accusations by Obi that the state government had a hand in the demolition, a claim which has since been firmly denied by Lagos authorities.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, dismissed Obi’s claims as lacking evidence and being “unverified and baseless.” The Commissioner emphasized that neither the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) nor any affiliated agency carried out the alleged demolition.
“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,” Omotoso said. “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.”
Omotoso further cited assurances from Dr. Olajide Abiodun Babatunde, the Special Adviser on eGIS & Urban Development, who oversees LASBCA, affirming that no demolition was authorized or executed by the agency.
Raising concerns about the political implications of Obi’s statement, especially in light of upcoming local government elections, Omotoso urged public figures to avoid disseminating unverified information. “It is concerning that such weighty claims were made without proper verification or recourse to the appropriate authorities, especially at such a sensitive time,” he noted.
Reaffirming the government’s stance on rule of law and due process, Omotoso stated that any act of illegality, if proven, would be addressed decisively. “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,” he said.
To ensure transparency and a thorough inquiry, the state government has directed Arc. Gbolahun Owodunni Oki, FNIA, Permanent Secretary in the Office of Urban Development, to lead a detailed investigation through LASBCA. The objective, according to Omotoso, is to determine the facts surrounding the demolition and ensure appropriate steps are taken thereafter.
“The investigation will help clarify what truly happened and ensure appropriate actions are taken,” the Commissioner added.
Concluding the statement, the Lagos State Government emphasized its commitment to inclusivity and the safety of all its residents. “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 said.
What you should know
Peter Obi accused the Lagos State Government of demolishing his brother’s property. The state denied involvement and ordered a full probe, stressing commitment to due process and inclusion for all residents.
