The recent claim by former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, that the Lagos State Government demolished a property belonging to his brother, has sparked public debate and official rebuttals. As tension simmers, the truth remains subject to an ongoing investigation.
Obi’s Allegation: “Lawlessness Taken Too Far”
Obi took to social media to express outrage over the demolition of his brother’s property in Ikeja. He alleged that the building was brought down without notice, a court order, or any engagement with the property’s rightful owner. According to Obi, the family was not informed of any new buyer, and the demolition began abruptly over a weekend.
Obi described the incident as a gross abuse of power and “lawlessness taken too far,” framing it as a possible politically motivated act. His statement resonated with supporters who view the Labour Party figure as a target of systemic intimidation.
Lagos State Government Denies Involvement
In response, the Lagos State Government issued a categorical denial. A statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, stated that neither the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) nor any other agency of the government was involved in the demolition.
Supporting this position, Dr. Olajide Abiodun Babatunde, Special Adviser on eGIS and Urban Development, under whose supervision LASBCA falls, confirmed that the agency had no hand in the matter. The government insisted that all actions carried out by its agencies adhere to due process and are backed by proper legal documentation.
Call for Calm and a Full Investigation
To address the allegations, the government has directed the Permanent Secretary of the Office of Urban Development, Arc. Gbolahan Owodunni Oki, to initiate a full investigation through LASBCA. The aim, according to Omotoso, is to clarify the facts and take necessary action if wrongdoing is found.
Omotoso reiterated the state’s commitment to law and order, noting that Lagos “will not tolerate any acts of lawlessness or violations of extant laws.” He appealed to residents to disregard unverified claims and trust the integrity of the state’s systems.
Conflicting Narratives and Unanswered Questions
At the core of this controversy are two sharply opposing accounts. On one side is Obi’s claim of a politically tinged injustice executed without legal basis. On the other is the government’s firm denial, backed by a call for transparency through investigation.
Currently, no independent evidence has surfaced to definitively link the Lagos State Government to the demolition. Meanwhile, the state’s commitment to investigating the case suggests that internal breaches or rogue actions have not been entirely ruled out.
Awaiting the Facts
As the investigation progresses, Lagosians and political observers alike await answers. Until the Lagos State Building Control Agency concludes its inquiry and releases its findings, the true identity of those behind the demolition and their motives remains a matter of speculation.
