By Newspot Nigeria Metro Desk
The Lagos State Government has issued a strong rebuttal to allegations made by former presidential candidate Mr. Peter Obi, who claimed that the state authorities were responsible for the demolition of a property allegedly owned by his brother.
In a statement signed by the Honourable Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, the state government categorically denied any involvement in the said demolition. According to the statement, the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) — the body responsible for regulating building standards in the state — was not involved in the incident.
Dr. Olajide Abiodun Babatunde, the Special Adviser overseeing LASBCA, was quoted as confirming that no directive was issued by the agency or any other relevant government department regarding the alleged demolition.
“We find it disturbing that Mr. Peter Obi would make such allegations without verifying the facts,” the statement reads.
In response to the controversy, the Lagos State Government has directed the Permanent Secretary, Office of Urban Development, Arc. Gbolahan Owodunni Oki, FNIA, to oversee a full investigation into the matter to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the event.
The government emphasized its unwavering commitment to law and order, stating that anyone found culpable of illegal demolitions would be held accountable.
Reaffirming its dedication to the rights and safety of all residents, the government urged the public to disregard Obi’s claims and trust in its continuous efforts to maintain peace and justice in the state.
This development comes amid rising political tensions and heightened public interest in property rights and state enforcement measures.
Full statement from the Lagos State Government is reproduced below:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
OFFICIAL STATEMENT FROM THE LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT
CLARIFICATION ON DEMOLITION OF PROPERTY
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.
Signed,
Mr. Gbenga Omotoso
Honourable Commissioner, Information & Strategy
Lagos State Government
📰 For more verified updates and developing stories, keep reading Newspot Nigeria.
