The Lagos State Government has denied involvement in the demolition of a property linked to the brother of former Anambra Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi. In an official statement released via its verified X handle on Thursday, the state government described Obi’s allegations as “baseless” and “disturbing,” insisting that neither the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) nor any government agency carried out the said demolition.
“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,” the statement read. Dr. Olajide Abiodun Babatunde, Special Adviser on eGIS & Urban Development, who supervises LASBCA, also confirmed that the agency was not involved in the incident. The state described Obi’s public statements as troubling and misleading. “We find it disturbing that Mr. Peter Obi would make such allegations without verifying the facts.”
The Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, reaffirmed Lagosians that the government “is committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the safety and security of all residents,” adding that “any individual or group found involved in such acts will be brought to justice.” He further disclosed that the Permanent Secretary, Office of Urban Development, Arc. Gbolahan Owodunni Oki, FNIA, has been directed to request a full investigation by LASBCA to clarify the circumstances surrounding the demolition. The government urged the public to “disregard Mr. Peter Obi’s claims” without providing information on who approved the demolition to be carried out, and then went ahead to try and reaffirm the citizens of its “continued commitment to maintaining law and order” in Lagos State.
