By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
The Lagos State Government has responded to claims made by former presidential candidate Peter Obi about the demolition of a property said to belong to his younger brother in Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria.
Speaking with The PUNCH on Wednesday, the Commissioner for Information, Gbenga Omotoso, acknowledged the issue and said he would contact the relevant authorities for more information. However, no further clarification was provided as of press time.
On Tuesday, Obi shared via his official X account that his brother’s company property, which had stood for over 15 years, was demolished by unknown individuals. He said the demolition was carried out without a clear court order or proper identification from those involved.
Obi described the event as “coordinated lawlessness,” stating that his brother was denied access to the site and that the individuals present could not explain who sent them or show any official documents.
Both the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) and the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA) denied involvement in the incident.
LASBCA spokesperson, Adu Ademuyiwa, stated, “We are not the ones who demolished the house.”
Similarly, LASPPPA spokesperson, Abimbola Edmin-Umeh, said she was unaware of the demolition and noted that enforcement actions are usually carried out by different agencies depending on the nature of the violation. She added that the agency could assist further if official documents were made available.
