Dare Babalola
The Lagos State Government (LASG) has slammed Former Presidential candidate, Peter Obi, over his position on the demolition that took place at the Trade Fair Complex in the state.
In a statement signed by Gbenga Omotoso, Head of Information and Strategy, on Wednesday, the demolition was conducted in accordance with physical planning laws.
According to the statement, Obi’s remarks, which commended traders for their “restraint” and suggested that the demolished buildings had proper approvals are an attempt to mislead the public through “misinformation and disinformation”.
Omotoso backed the decision of the government explaining that the owners of the affected structures did not hold valid planning approvals.
“They were given ample time to regularise their papers when the State Government declared a general amnesty last year, which was extended several times. They shunned the offer,” the statement read.
He accused the traders of physically assaulting officials from the Lagos State Physical Planning and Urban Development Ministry who went for an inspection.
“The gates were locked against them, and they were beaten. The police had to intervene to ensure the safety of our officers,” Omotoso said.
The statement further addressed claims that the Trade Fair Complex Management Board had authorised the construction.
It noted that while the Board, established by the Federal Government to manage the complex, may oversee leases, tenancies, and commercial activities, it lacks the authority to approve building developments independently of the Lagos State Government.
It read, “Under the Nigerian Urban and Regional Planning Act (1992), as adopted by Lagos State, all physical developments within Lagos require planning permits from the State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development.
“This position was reinforced by the Supreme Court in 2003 (Attorney-General of Lagos State v. Attorney-General of the Federation), which affirmed that land use and physical planning fall under concurrent jurisdiction, with states retaining authority to regulate development within their territories.”
The government emphasised that its enforcement actions were therefore lawful.
“The Management Board can allocate spaces and provide administrative consent, but any construction or alteration without state approval is illegal and may be sealed or demolished,” Omotoso said.
The statement called for adherence to law and order over political sentiment saying, “We must decide the kind of society we want — one governed by law or one run by emotions, fuelled by political interests.”
