- Safiu Kehinde
The Lagos State Government has denied involvement in the demolition of property allegedly belonging to the brother of the 2023 Labour Party’s Presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
NPO Reported that Obi had yesterday took to his official X handle to lamented over the demolition of the said property located in Ikeja, the state’s capital.
In what he described as a coordinated lawlessness and impunity, Obi recounted how the property which he claimed belonged to his youngest brother was invaded and demolished on Tuesday morning.
According to the Anambra state governor, the said property owner whose name was not disclosed reportedly called to inform him about the development.
The post had triggered reactions from Obi supporters with the Lagos state government accused of being responsible for the demolition.
Reacting to the development in a statement issued on Thursday, the state’s Commissioner for Information, Gbenga Omotosho, clarified that the state government is not responsible for the demolition.
While expressing his disappointment with Obi’s post, Omotosho reiterated the government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the safety and security of all residents.
The Commissioner assured that the perpetrators of the demolition will be brought to justice.
He however urged members of the public to disregard Obi’s allegations.
The statement read in part; “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 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.”