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The Lagos State Government has denied any involvement in the demolition of a property owned by the brother of Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate.
In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, the government described Obi’s allegation that it sanctioned the demolition as “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 disclosed that Dr. Olajide Abiodun Babatunde, Special Adviser to the Governor on eGIS and Urban Development, confirmed that LASBCA was not involved in the disputed demolition.
Describing Obi’s claims as politically motivated, Omotoso said:
“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 state government’s commitment to the rule of law and emphasized that any individual or group found guilty of illegal actions would be held accountable.
To determine the facts, Omotoso said the state has directed the Permanent Secretary of the Office of Urban Development, Arc. Gbolahun Owodunni Oki, to initiate a full investigation through LASBCA.
“The investigation will help clarify the circumstances surrounding the demolition and ensure that any necessary actions are taken,” he added.
Peter Obi had on Monday, June 23, raised alarm over the demolition of his brother’s company property located in Ikeja, the Lagos State capital. He alleged that the demolition was carried out without a court order and that his brother was not allowed to retrieve personal belongings from the building before it was brought down.
