The Lagos State Government has denied any involvement in the demolition of a commercial property in Ikeja, which former presidential candidate Peter Obi claimed belongs to his younger brother.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, the state government said that neither the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) nor any affiliated agency participated in the demolition, countering Obi’s assertion that the action was state-sanctioned.
“We find it disturbing that Mr. Peter Obi would make such serious allegations without verifying the facts,” the statement read. “The Lagos State Government is committed to upholding the rule of law and will not condone any form of lawlessness or extrajudicial action.”
Omotoso urged the public to disregard what he called “baseless claims”, stating that the state remains focused on maintaining law and order. He added that efforts to discredit the administration’s policies would not deter it from delivering on its mandate.
However, in a move to address public concern, the government announced an investigation into the incident. The Permanent Secretary of the Office of Urban Development, Arc. Gbolahan Owodunni Oki, has been directed to initiate a full inquiry through LASBCA to determine the circumstances surrounding the demolition.
“This investigation will help clarify the facts and ensure that appropriate actions are taken if any wrongdoing is established,” the statement added.
The government reiterated its open-door policy, assuring all residents—regardless of political or ethnic background—of their right to live and do business safely in Lagos.
Peter Obi Alleges Illegal Action
On Wednesday, Peter Obi took to his official X (formerly Twitter) handle to condemn the incident, alleging that armed men stormed and demolished his brother’s business premises without presenting a court order or official documentation.
“This morning, my youngest brother called me frantically, informing me that a group of people had invaded his company property in Ikeja, Lagos, and were demolishing the building,” Obi posted.
“If this level of lawlessness can happen to someone with a registered company and legitimate means, what hope does the ordinary Nigerian have?”
He called the action “illegal and arbitrary,” warning that unchecked impunity would deter investors and erode confidence in the rule of law.
