A civil society organization, Campaign for Dignity in Governance has expressed disapproval regarding comments made by former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, who criticized the Lagos State government following the demolition of a property belonging to his brother without verifying the facts.
In a statement on his X account, Obi voiced outrage over the incident, claiming it reflects a broader pattern of impunity and a disregard for the rule of law in the country. He alleged that the building was demolished without prior notice, a court order, or any engagement with the rightful owner of the property.
In response, the Lagos State Government had swiftly denied any involvement in the demolition of the property located in the Ikeja area, stating that neither the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) nor any other government entity carried out the demolition.
The CSO released a statement signed by its Convener, Comrade Razaq Olokooba, urging the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party to verify his claims before making allegations and to avoid dragging the Lagos government into the controversies surrounding his brother’s demolished property in Ikeja.
Olokooba emphasized that before making unsubstantiated accusations and framing the demolition as possibly politically motivated, Peter Obi should have verified who authorized the demolition.
He commended the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) for promptly issuing a clear denial in a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, along with support from Dr. Olajide Abiodun Babatunde, Special Adviser on eGIS and Urban Development, under whose supervision LASBCA operates.
“We join other Lagosians and Nigerians who are deeply concerned about the demolition of Peter Obi’s brother’s property in Ikeja. However, we are also troubled by unverified comments attempting to implicate the state government in this controversy,” Olokooba stated.
“It is worrisome that someone of his stature did not confirm the facts with the authorities before attempting to involve the state government in his brother’s property issues.”
He pointed out that it is premature and simplistic to imply political animosity in this situation without waiting for a thorough investigation to conclude. “Mr. Peter Obi was mistaken in this instance.”
Unfortunately, Obi’s statement resonated with supporters who believe the Labour Party’s candidate in the 2023 presidential election is a victim of systemic intimidation. Therefore, we urge Obi’s supporters to verify the facts and refrain from uncritically endorsing every narrative put forth by politicians.
“We are pleased that the Lagos State government has promptly launched an inquiry into this controversy. We also welcome that Peter Obi’s brother has taken legal action to challenge the demolition. We can follow the proceedings of the case and await its outcome.
“The administration led by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has demonstrated remarkable capacity across various sectors in the state and has prioritized infrastructural development. Consequently, we are confident that he will not support any form of illegality that could undermine Nigeria’s commercial capital, either for personal or political reasons,” Olokooba emphasized.
In a rebuttal, the Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, stated: “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 existing laws. Any individual or group found involved in s*uch acts will be brought to justice.
“We urge the public to disregard Mr. Peter Obi’s claims and can assure them that the Lagos State Government will continue to work tirelessly to maintain law and order in our great state,” Omotoso asserted.
“We will not be swayed by baseless allegations or attempts to undermine our efforts,” he concluded.
