Lagos Government Faults Peter Obi’s Claims on Trade Fair Complex Demolitions

The Lagos State Government has dismissed comments by former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, over the demolition of buildings at the Trade Fair Complex, describing his remarks as misleading. Obi, during a visit to the affected traders, had criticized the state’s enforcement of planning laws, claiming that the demolished structures had valid approvals. He also described the incident as a test of justice and compassion. However, Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, insisted that the claims were false. He stated that the property owners never obtained approvals from the state government before putting up the buildings. According to Omotoso, the government had last year declared a general amnesty to allow property owners without proper documentation to regularise their papers. He explained that the window was extended several times, but those affected failed to comply. He further revealed that physical planning officials were attacked when they attempted to inspect the buildings. “The gates were locked against them, and they were beaten before being rescued by the police,” Omotoso said. The Commissioner added that invitations extended to the owners for dialogue were also ignored. Instead, the traders argued that the Trade Fair Complex Management Board had authorised the construction. Omotoso clarified that the board, being a federal agency, could only allocate spaces and manage leases but had no legal power to issue planning approvals. “Physical development approvals are the responsibility of state governments under the Nigerian Urban and Regional Planning Act and Lagos laws,” he stressed. He also referenced a 2003 Supreme Court judgment which affirmed that land use and development control are within state jurisdiction, even on federal lands, except for strictly designated areas like military formations. The Commissioner maintained that any construction without Lagos State’s approval remains illegal and subject to enforcement actions, including demolition. He concluded by urging Nigerians to embrace the rule of law rather than sentiments or political emotions.