A recent claim by former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, alleging that his brother’s house in Ikeja was demolished by the Lagos State Government, has ignited a firestorm of public outrage and political tension. But is the claim fact or fiction?
Obi Alleges “Lawlessness Taken Too Far“
Peter Obi took to social media to condemn the demolition, describing it as a blatant act of lawlessness carried out without notice, legal backing, or even a court order. He claimed that his family wasn’t informed about any change in property ownership and that the building was torn down over the weekend without warning.
Framing it as a political witch-hunt, Obi’s statement struck a chord with supporters who believe he’s being targeted for his political views.
Lagos State Fires Back: “We Had No Hand in It”
Responding swiftly, the Lagos State Government flatly denied any involvement in the demolition. In an official statement, Gbenga Omotoso, Commissioner for Information and Strategy, stressed that neither LASBCA (Lagos State Building Control Agency) nor any other state agency carried out the demolition.
Dr. Olajide Abiodun Babatunde, the Special Adviser on eGIS and Urban Development, whose office oversees LASBCA, also confirmed that the agency had no role in the incident.
An Investigation Is Underway
Despite denying involvement, the state has ordered a formal investigation into the demolition. The Permanent Secretary of the Office of Urban Development, Arc. Gbolahan Owodunni Oki, has been directed to lead a probe via LASBCA to determine what exactly transpired.
Omotoso reaffirmed the government’s commitment to upholding the law, urging the public to avoid jumping to conclusions and to wait for the outcome of the official inquiry.
“Lagos State does not condone illegality,” the statement read. “All our agencies follow due process, and we will act if any wrongdoing is uncovered.”
Two Sides, One Question: Who Did It?
The situation remains murky. While Obi insists the demolition was unlawful and possibly politically motivated, the government’s stance is one of total non-involvement and a call for transparency.
As of now, no verified evidence links the demolition directly to any Lagos State agency, but the fact that an investigation has been ordered indicates the possibility of unauthorized action by individuals or third parties.
The Verdict: Not Yet Clear
Until the probe is complete and LASBCA releases its findings, the question of who ordered the demolition and why; remains unanswered. For now, Nigerians are left with conflicting narratives and a watchful eye on what could develop into a bigger political controversy.
Stay tuned.
