The Lagos State Government has denied claims by former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, that it demolished a property allegedly owned by his brother in Lagos.
In a statement released on Thursday, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, said no agency of the state, including the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), was involved in any such demolition.
“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,” Omotoso said.
According to him, the government consulted Dr. Olajide Abiodun Babatunde, Special Adviser on eGIS and Urban Development, who supervises LASBCA, and he confirmed the agency had no role in the incident.
“We find it disturbing that Mr. Obi would make such serious allegations without first verifying the facts,” Omotoso added.
Reiterating the government's commitment to due process, the statement emphasised that Lagos will not condone lawlessness or allow anyone to act outside the bounds of the law. Omotoso also assured residents that any group or individual found violating the law would face justice.
To establish the facts, the government has ordered a full investigation into the incident. The Permanent Secretary, Office of Urban Development, Arc. Gbolahan Owodunni Oki, has been directed to oversee the inquiry and ensure transparency.
“The investigation by LASBCA will help clarify the circumstances surrounding the demolition and guide any necessary actions,” the statement said.
Omotoso concluded by reaffirming Lagos State’s inclusive stance and urged the public to disregard Obi’s allegations, which he described as unfounded.
“The Lagos State Government remains open, tolerant, and committed to the safety and well-being of all residents. We will not be distracted by baseless claims meant to score political points,” he said.
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