Honourable Commissioner, Information & Strategy Lagos State Government, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso in a Thursday statement released denied the state involvement in the demolition of 2023 Labour Party Presidential candidate Peter Obi brother’s property in Ikeja axis.

Obi in a video on Monday had expressed sadness over the lawlessness and unjust action involved in destruction of his brother’s company property that has been in operation for over 15 years.

He had revealed that his brother had called him that when he got to the said place after the weekend, he met contractors demolishing his property while security agents were trying to bar him from entering the compound, he called Obi who had immediately flown Lagos state.

Upon arrival and finding, there was no documentation backing the demolition while the contractor does not know who employed him to do such.

Obi has condemned such act and there has been uproar on social media categorically blasting the state government and ruling party for allegedly having a part in such destruction.

However, the state denied awareness through its statement, vowing to bring offender to justice

“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.”

—-by: Adeoye Olorunseun Elizabeth